JLR opens engine manufacturing centre

The EMC is home to the Ingenium engine family which will power a new generation of JLR products designed, engineered and manufactured in the UK. This starts with the 2.0-litre diesel, which rolls off the production line early next year, destined for the new Jaguar XE. Dr Ralf Speth, chief executive of Jaguar Land Rover, said: "The engine manufacturing centre represents all that is great about British engineering. "Jaguar Land Rover is a business driven by design, technology and innovation and this investment and level of job creation is yet further evidence of our commitment to advancing the capability of the UK automotive sector and its supply chain." The 100,000 sq m facility on the i54 business park has directly created 1,400 new jobs. It houses an engine-testing centre alongside manufacturing and assembly halls, and is home to the largest rooftop solar panel installation in the UK, comprising 21,000 individual panels. It is estimated that these panels will generate more than 30% of the plant's energy requirements. Trevor Leeks, the EMC's operations director, said: "Our new engine manufacturing centre is an important step in advancing the competitiveness and capability of the UK automotive sector. The production of in-house engines will support the expansion of the UK supply chain providing critical mass for inward investment." Mike Hawes, chief executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, said, "The opening of Jaguar Land Rover's new engine plant is clear evidence of the UK automotive industry's intention to become a leading force in the design, development and manufacture of engines. "The recent success is testament to the expertise of UK engineers, a flexible workforce and a competitive and supportive business environment. It will create more jobs, bolster the supply chain and help attract overseas suppliers back to UK shores."