UK's Automotive Industry in Coventry University Speech: Time is Running Out

author: FutureCar Staff    

The former CEO of Aston Martin and COO of Nissan has expressed concerns about the future of the UK's automotive industry. He believes that the country has been inactive for too long and is running out of time to secure its position in the industry. This comes after the announcement by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to delay the ban on new petrol car sales.

Speaking at Coventry University's Chancellor's Dinner, the former CEO emphasized the need for additional Gigafactories in the UK. He stated that the country should have six more Gigafactories in addition to those that have already been announced. This call for more Gigafactories was supported 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 has a strong presence with Jaguar Land Rover's base in the city. Coventry University, known for producing engineering and car design graduates, is also conducting research on hydrogen fuels and future transport solutions.

Dr. Andy Palmer, the keynote speaker at the event, expressed his uncertainty about the future of the industry. He believes that the UK has lagged behind other countries in investing in viable battery and auto industries. According to him, automakers will establish themselves where batteries are produced, as importing them on a large scale is not feasible. He estimated that the UK needs six more Gigafactories to meet the demand for cars and other battery-powered applications.

Dr. Palmer, who is considered the Godfather of EVs in the UK, has been involved in various companies developing green technology. While he is committed to electrification as the main solution for achieving Net Zero, he also emphasized the need to explore other alternatives.

FutureCar Staff