Lotus has dispelled fears of relocation, firmly committing to its Norfolk factory. The sports car manufacturer reassured Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds that it has no plans to shut the Hethel plant or move production to the US, a decision that secures 1,300 jobs.
Concerns arose after Lotus, owned by China’s Geely, temporarily halted production in mid-May, with reports suggesting a US manufacturing shift was being explored due to tariffs. However, a Department for Business and Trade spokesperson confirmed Reynolds “was reassured by management that they are committed to their UK operations and have no plans to close their Hethel plant.”
Lotus is now preparing to resume full operations as US tariffs on car imports are set to decrease significantly, making exports of its Emira sports cars more economically viable. The company has consistently stated that “the UK is the heart of the Lotus brand,” reinforcing its dedication to its British base.
The government’s broader commitment to supporting the automotive sector through measures like reduced energy costs and R&D funding further solidifies the positive outlook for Lotus’s continued presence in the UK.