Aston Martin to open plant in Wales creating 750 jobs

Aston Martin is to create more than 750 jobs in Wales by opening a new factory. The car maker will build a new plant in St Athan from 2020.

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Aston Martin secures land for factory near Cardiff

Credit: Joe Giddens/PA Wire

James Bond car maker Aston Martin has moved a step closer to opening a new factory in South Wales as the firm secured the land it will be built upon.

The luxury marque announced earlier this year it will build its new DBX model at a plant in St Athan in the Vale of Glamorgan from 2020 following a worldwide search for a new manufacturing facility.

The development, as part of a £200 million investment, will be Aston Martin's second factory and will create an estimated 750 jobs at the plant and 1,000 jobs in the wider supply chain and local businesses.

ITV REPORT 24 February 2016 at 9:54am James Bond car maker Aston Martin to open Welsh factory Aston Martin DBX The luxury new DBX model will be built in Wales Credit: PA Wire

We are delighted that Aston Martin has chosen to locate its new manufacturing facility here in Wales and that the land sale is now complete.Aston Martin's move here is fantastic news for the Vale of Glamorgan and surrounding areas, and will provide a real boost to the local economy, resulting in thousands of high quality jobs both within Aston Martin and the wider supply chain.

– Carwyn Jones AM, First Minister

Aston Martin choosing Wales sends a clear message to leading global companies around the world that Wales is open for business.We have created the ideal conditions for economic growth, which helped attract this unique and innovative car manufacturer to South Wales. Today's announcement reflects the excellent infrastructure, a world class talent pool and businesses that have the confidence to expand in Wales

– Alun Cairns MP, Secretary of State for Wales

This is hugely welcome news for Wales and the Vale of Glamorgan and comes after the Conservative Government’s positive intervention and successful pitch to the company to build its DBX Concept car in St Athan.

By laying strong economic foundations, Conservatives have created an environment where prestigious companies such as Aston Martin are attracted to invest in Wales – and this is set to continue.

– Andrew RT Davies AM, Leader of the Welsh Conservatives

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Union welcomes Aston Martin investment

Unite Wales is welcoming Aston Martin Lagondas announcement that they will build their new vehicle in Wales.

his is a real coup for Wales and a landmark investment. Aston Martin is a prestigious brand, and its investment in Wales is much needed good news for our manufacturing sector. The decision to locate it Wales will provide a massive boost to our automotive supply chain.

A lot of credit must go to First Minister Carwyn Jones on delivering this boost for Wales. In addition the foresight and tenacity shown by Business Minister Edwina Hart in securing the deal must also be recognised.

Aston Martins investment is recognition that Wales has the skills and workforce to manufacture top end high quality products. Welsh Governments commitment to attracting world class inward investment to our country has today been rewarded

– Andy Richards Wales Secretary

So what's special about the DBX?

The DBX Concept is an all-electric 4 X 4 crossover vehicle. Aston Martin says it's a luxury GT concept

The company says it has no engine compartment because it uses four electric motors near the wheels powered by batteries. That means luggage can be put in boots at the front and back.

It has a drive-by-wire steering system and driver and passenger head-up displays (first seen in military aircraft).

Aston Martin says its glass darkens automatically and cameras replace conventional mirrors.

Aston Martin announcement 'enormous boost' for Wales

Credit: PA

The Secretary of State has welcomed the news that 750 jobs are to be created in St Athan.

It comes after car manufacturer, Aston Martin announced it will build a new plant in the Vale of Glamorgan.

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.

– Stephen Crabb MP, Secretary of State

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