British car maker Aston Martin has confirmed that it plans to manufacture its new luxury DBX crossover vehicle in Wales, the UK Government revealed on Wednesday.
St Athan in Glamorgan has been selected as the location for Aston martin’s second manufacturing facility, which is said to reinforce Wales’ position as an innovator and leader in the automotive sector.
The investment by Aston Martin will see the creation of 750 high-skilled jobs and support a further 1,000 in the supply chain company’s new luxury DBX crossover vehicle will be manufactured at the site in an investment that will directly create 750 high-skilled jobs and support a further 1,000 in the supply chain.
Construction of the new Aston Martin facility at St Athan is expected to begin in 2017. The site covers approximately 90 acres and will re-purpose some of the facilities currently used by the Ministry of Defence, transforming the three existing ‘super-hangers’ at MOD St Athan. Full vehicle production is expected to commence in 2020 and the site will be the sole production facility for a new Aston Martin crossover vehicle.
An Aston Martin concept crossover vehicle named ‘DBX’ was first exhibited in early 2015 and is said to demonstrate the company’s intention and direction for this fast-growing luxury market segment. Demand is reportedly growing in markets such as China and the US for crossover vehicles and the company anticipates that more than 90% of those manufactured at its St Athan facility will be exported outside of the UK.
Stephen Crabb, Secretary of State for Wales, commented:
“Today’s announcement is an enormous boost for St Athan, for Wales and for the British car industry. It is a genuine example of a ‘one nation’ achievement, with both the UK and Welsh Governments working together to attract this prestige manufacturer to Welsh shores.
“This decision has reinforced Wales’ position as an innovator and leader in the automotive sector. It also shows the strength and competitiveness of our manufacturing sector, and the high-end skills base that is driving our economy forward.
“St Athan will present a wealth of opportunities to Aston Martin. I look forward to seeing the Super Hangar transformed into a major manufacturing base, and seeing Wales underlining its important contribution to the renaissance of the UK automotive industry.
Prime Minister, David Cameron added:
“Aston Martin is an iconic British brand and the decision to invest here shows real confidence in our economy. With our economic strengths and easy access to European markets, the UK automotive sector is thriving.
“It is one of the biggest in Europe – and the most productive – and Aston’s creation of up to 1,000 new jobs in Wales and the West Midlands is welcome news.”
Related Articles