UK's Automotive Industry in Coventry University at Risk

author: FutureCar Staff    

The former CEO of Aston Martin and COO of Nissan has expressed concerns about the UK's automotive industry and the need for urgent action. Andy Palmer, speaking at Coventry University's Chancellor's Dinner, emphasized the necessity of additional Gigafactories to secure the industry's future. This sentiment was echoed by West Midlands Mayor Andy Street, who has been advocating for a Gigafactory in Coventry.

Coventry, once a prominent hub of the UK's motor industry, still houses Jaguar Land Rover's large base. The city is also home to Coventry University, known for producing engineering and car design graduates and conducting innovative research on hydrogen fuels and future transport solutions.

Dr. Palmer highlighted the importance of investing in battery production, as automakers tend to establish themselves where batteries are manufactured. He emphasized that the UK has lagged behind other countries in this regard and urged swift action. According to him, the UK needs at least six more Gigafactories to meet the demand for electric vehicles and explore the potential of battery usage in other sectors.

Dr. Palmer, known as the Godfather of EVs in the UK, has been involved in various green technology ventures, including CEO positions at Palmer Automotive Ltd, Pod Point, and Chairman roles at Hilo Ltd, IONETIC, InoBat, and Brill Power. While he supports electrification as the primary pathway to Net Zero, he believes that alternative solutions should also be pursued.

FutureCar Staff