Multinational automotive manufacturing corporation Stellantis is celebrating its first day operating the UK's first electric vehicle-only factory at the revamped Ellesmere Port plant near Liverpool in the North West of England.
Ellesmere Port, previously known for its production of traditional combustion engine vehicles as far back as the 60s, has undergone a transformation with a £100 million investment from Stellantis.
Stellantis acquired Vauxhall in January 2021 and swiftly initiated the revamp of the Ellesmere Port site, steering the UK into a new era of electric vehicle production.
Business secretary Kemi Badenoch today praised the initiative as a "visible demonstration that the 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.”
The government intends to phase out the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030.
Ellesmere Port will be the production hub for the Vauxhall Combo-e commercial vehicle, which will also be marketed as Opel in mainland Europe.
In addition, the facility will manufacture the Citroen e-Berlingo van and its sister model, the Peugeot e-Partner. These vehicles are expected to play a significant role in the commercial sector, offering businesses an eco-friendly alternative to traditional vans.
