UK's Automotive Industry in Coventry University Speech

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【Summary】Former CEO of Aston Martin and COO of Nissan, Andy Palmer, has warned that the UK is running out of time to secure the future of its automotive industry. He emphasized the need for additional Gigafactories in the country and stated that automakers will base themselves where batteries are made. Palmer urged the UK to act fast, as other countries like China, the US, and the EU are already ahead in the development of viable battery and auto industries.

FutureCar Staff Sep 22, 2023 6:15 AM PT

UK's Automotive Industry in Coventry University Speech

The former CEO of Aston Martin and COO of Nissan has expressed concern about the future of the UK's automotive industry, stating that the country has "sat on its hands for too long" and is running out of time. Speaking at Coventry University's Chancellor's Dinner, Andy Palmer emphasized the need for additional Gigafactories in the UK, in addition to the ones already announced.

Coventry, once the hub of the UK's motor industry, still plays a significant role with Jaguar Land Rover having a large base in the city. Coventry University, known for producing engineering and car design graduates, is also conducting cutting-edge research into hydrogen fuels and future transport solutions.

Dr. Palmer highlighted the importance of battery production in determining the location of automakers. He stated that the UK needs more Gigafactories, estimating that an additional six would be necessary to meet the demand for cars and explore other potential uses of batteries. He emphasized the urgency of acting quickly to catch up with countries like China, the US, and the EU, which are already ahead in terms of battery and auto industries.

Dr. Palmer, known as the Godfather of EVs in the UK, has played a significant role in the development of green technology. He has been involved with companies such as Palmer Automotive Ltd, Pod Point, Hilo Ltd, IONETIC, InoBat, and Brill Power, focusing on electric vehicles and battery technologies.

While Dr. Palmer is committed to electrification as the primary solution for achieving Net Zero emissions, he believes that other alternatives must also be explored.