Lotus commits to UK operations after urgent talks with Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds. The British sports car maker dismissed rumors of shutting its Norfolk factory, easing concerns over 1,300 jobs.
On Sunday, Reynolds met with Lotus and its Chinese owner, Geely. The company confirmed its dedication to the Hethel plant. A government spokesperson stated that Lotus has no plans to close the facility.
Additionally, Reynolds highlighted the UK’s support for the automotive sector. He mentioned efforts to cut energy costs and a £2.5bn funding boost for innovation.
Lotus paused production in May due to 25% US tariffs on car imports. Other UK automakers, like Jaguar Land Rover, also faced delays. However, tariffs will drop to 10% starting Monday.
The Hethel factory builds 5,000 Emira sports cars yearly, with 60% shipped to the US. Lotus also produces a £2.3m electric hypercar there. Ben Goldsborough, Labour MP for South Norfolk, expressed deep worry about the factory’s future. He spoke with Lotus executives and ministers, stressing the plant’s economic importance.
Goldsborough pledged to push for financial support and partnerships. He called the situation serious but vowed to protect jobs. Despite Lotus commits to UK operations, its CEO hinted at US expansion. Qingfeng Feng told investors they were discussing local production to avoid tariffs.
The company already has an EV factory in China. Moving some output to the US could help competitiveness. Lotus reaffirmed its UK roots in a recent statement. It called Hethel the heart of its brand and denied closure rumors.
The automaker said it seeks efficiency improvements but remains committed to Norfolk. Lotus commits to UK operations as it navigates global market challenges.
While Lotus evaluates global strategies, its UK presence stays secure. The government and local leaders will monitor developments closely. For now, Hethel’s workforce can breathe easier.
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