JLR produced more than 500,000 cars and commercial vehicles at its three vehicle manufacturing plants in Solihull, Birmingham and Liverpool.
Under Tata ownership, the company has seen a transformation in its business since 2009 when total annual production stood at 158,000 units. Since that time, JLR has become the fastest growing UK automotive manufacturer with annual output rising by almost 70% thanks to more than £11bn of R&D investment to create an expanded and enhanced range from the two British marques.
The company's three British vehicle manufacturing plants – Castle Bromwich, Halewood and Solihull – which have each welcomed considerable investment to drive up capacity, capability and quality. In addition, it has invested £1bn in an engine manufacturing centre to build the high technology, low emission Ingenium engine. Together these facilities have created more than 10,000 manufacturing jobs in five years, with the overall UK workforce more than doubling to 35,000.
JLR’s executive director of manufacturing, Wolfgang Stadler said: “Britain is the beating heart of our business, so becoming the country's largest vehicle manufacturer is a remarkable achievement, demonstrating our steadfast commitment to the UK manufacturing sector.
“2015 was a challenging year for the industry against a backdrop of socio economic instability, but it is a testament to our strong product range and dedicated team of employees that Jaguar.”
Professor Lord Bhattacharyya, chairman of Warwick Manufacturing Group, added: “The UK automotive production figures are very encouraging and demonstrate what investment in products, skills and innovation can bring to the British economy.
“Companies like Jaguar Land Rover continue to invest over-proportionally, not only in high technology, high value manufacturing but also in talent development. The Jaguar Land Rover Learning Academy recognises that education and skills are critical to the long-term success of the British car industry.”
