British automaker Lotus is integrating its aluminum chassis building and steel sub-frame manufacturing facilities into one larger facility in Norwich dubbed ‘Hurricane Way.’
David Hewitt, Lotus’ executive director of operations, said in a press release on July 8 that the move will improve both efficiency and productivity of the carmaker’s manufacturing process. He added that its proximity to the headquarters in Hethel, Norfolk will be an operating advantage for future expansion.
The move was aided by the New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership and the Norwich City Council and the new facility will create 50 jobs that could increase to 75 planned roles in the future.
The facility will span 12.3 sq. km (7.64 sq miles) and produce bonded aluminum chassis for the Evora, Exige, and Elise sports cars. It will also house a steel welding and frame fabrication workshop along with the manufacturing of suspension and other components of the high-end cars assembled by the company.
The current facility in Worcester will be repurposed and the employees will be offered to continue their roles at the Norwich plant.