Stellantis Leads UK's EV Charge
7 Sep 2023
Exciting news in the automotive world as electric vehicle
production officially begins at Stellantis's Ellesmere Port factory in
Cheshire, making it the UK's sole dedicated manufacturing facility for these
eco-friendly vehicles. This groundbreaking venture represents a significant
stride toward a greener, more sustainable future.
At the heart of this new endeavor are electric vans that
include the Vauxhall Combo Electric, Opel Combo Electric, Citroen e-Berlingo,
and Fiat E-Doblo. The production's inception comes on the heels of a remarkable
£100 million investment by Stellantis, securing the future of the former
Vauxhall car manufacturing site and dispelling lingering doubts resulting from
post-Brexit trading arrangements.
With the impending ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel
cars and vans in the UK set for 2030, the Ellesmere Port plant is playing a
pivotal role in the nation's transition to clean energy alternatives.
Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch said: "Today's
announcement is a very visible demonstration that this government has got the
right plan for the UK's automotive sector.
"Alongside recent investments from other major vehicle
manufacturers, we are ensuring the UK remains at the forefront of automotive
innovation as well as securing jobs in this critical industry and its wider
supply chain."
Plant director Diane Miller said: "The start of
electric vehicle production at Ellesmere Port signals a bright future for the
plant, ensuring it will continue to manufacture vehicles for many years to
come.
"With Vauxhall's long history of UK manufacturing, it's
especially fitting that the first electric model to roll off Ellesmere Port's
production line is a Combo Electric, whilst the welcome addition of the Fiat
E-Doblo to the plant is a positive reflection of increasing electric vehicle
demand."
As we witness this momentous shift towards electric vehicles and sustainable transportation, it's clear that the Ellesmere Port plant is leading the charge, both in terms of technological innovation and securing the livelihoods of those within the industry.
Reference: www.bbc.co.uk “Electric vehicle production begins at unique plant”