Jaguar Land Rover owners Tata Group has confirmed it will develop a new EV battery gigafactory in Somerset.
The site represents an investment of £4bn and is expected to create upwards of 9,000 additional jobs.
Production will begin as early as 2026, initially supplying batteries for a new range of electric Jaguar and Land Rover models.
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said, “Tata Group’s multi-billion-pound investment in a new battery factory in the UK is testament to the strength of our car manufacturing industry and its skilled workers. With the global transition to zero emission vehicles well underway, this will help grow our economy by driving forward our lead in battery technology while creating as many as 4,000 jobs, and thousands more in the supply chain.”
Natarajan Chandrasekaran, Chair of Tata Sons, said, “With this strategic investment, the Tata Group further strengthens its commitment to the UK, alongside our many companies operating here across technology, consumer, hospitality, steel, chemicals and automotive.”
The announcement, which comes following substantial support from the UK government, has been welcomed by the automotive industry.
Graham Hoare OBE, CEO, Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) and co-chair of UK Automotive Council, said, “The news that the UK has been chosen as the home of Tata Group’s first gigafactory outside India is a significant boost to the UK economy. It provides much needed confidence to the supply chain, secures a pipeline for thousands of high-skilled jobs in Somerset and across the UK and is an important step on our net-zero journey.”
Meanwhile, Steve Nash, CEO of the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), added, “There is no question that this is great news for the UK economy, with the prospect of thousands of jobs. For the UK to become a centre of excellence in the electric battery field is crucial for future decarbonisation ambitions. Such a sign of intent from the UK government to support the Tata decision is encouraging for the whole automotive sector. What we now need is for that intent to filter down to the aftermarket too.”
