McLaren Automotive will make a £500m investment to expand its UK manufacturing, engineering and operations, enabling it to accelerate the development of its next generation of models including a long-awaited performance SUV.
The investment forms part of a larger commitment from McLaren Automotive shareholder L’IMAD, a sovereign investor of the Government of Abu Dhabi, and reinforces McLaren’s commitment to Britain, where Bruce McLaren founded the company in 1963, and where it produced the legendary McLaren F1 – its first supercar.
The investment will enable McLaren Automotive to expand its production capability, increasing vehicle output to ensure the next generation of McLaren Automotive cars are built in Britain including a newly confirmed performance SUV. This will be made possible by a new vehicle assembly facility planned in the UK.
For the first time in its history, McLaren Automotive’s future powertrains will be designed and built in-house, starting with two new engines and transmissions. This will support the company’s hybrid engine strategy, building on McLaren Automotive’s pioneering use of hybrid technology, which started with the McLaren P1.
New products, skills and jobs
McLaren Automotive is building a complete portfolio around the supercar – intentionally and carefully segmented, with the goal of maximising brand value, desirability and client loyalty. The company is entering new categories including plans to launch a performance SUV. The investment will provide the manufacturing capacity, technology and skills required to bring its future portfolio to market.
The programme will create at least 1,000 new direct and indirect jobs across McLaren’s UK operations by 2032, while safeguarding existing roles. McLaren Automotive’s manufacturing workforce is set to double in the UK, supported by new apprenticeships to develop the next generation of talent.
McLaren Automotive’s plans will support the growth of the UK industry. Up to 3,000 additional jobs are expected to be created across supply chain, bolstering the British automotive sector and boosting exports[1].
The investment will strengthen McLaren Automotive’s expertise in lightweighting, carbon fibre and advanced manufacturing, while securing critical intellectual property and production capabilities in the UK.
Jassem Al Zaabi, Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer of L’IMAD, said, “Over the past 20 months, L’IMAD has worked closely with McLaren Automotive’s management team, supporting the business in sharpening its strategic direction and positioning itself for long-term growth. This investment reflects our confidence in its potential and our commitment to backing the business through its next chapter, building on the heritage, engineering excellence, and distinctive brand that has defined McLaren for more than six decades.”
