Lotus Cars announces new Norwich factory and series of jobs

Lotus Cars will move into a new facility on Hurricane Way, Norwich Credit: PA Images

Norfolk-based car manufacturer Lotus has announced a merger which could create over 100 jobs.

The firm said it will bring two smaller plants into one new, larger facility at Hurricane Way in Norwich.

Both smaller factories, currently in Norwich's Vulcan Road and Worcester, will close and staff will be offered the chance to relocate. Lotus said it has "outgrown" these facilities.

Activities at the new Hurricane Way factory include part of the manufacturing process of the Evora, Exige and Elise cars, as well as of aluminium components for other vehicle companies.

Lotus said 50 jobs will initially be available, but they plan to advertise for 75 more after this.

David Hewitt, Executive Director of Operations at Lotus said: “By bringing the aluminium chassis and steel sub-assembly manufacturing businesses together into one facility, we can further improve upon efficiencies and productivity for Lotus manufacturing".

He added that the new factory's proximity to Lotus’ HQ in Hethel, Norfolk, where all Lotus cars are assembled, will also benefit the business.