# Jaguar Land Rover’s Halewood Plant Set for Major EV Transformation
*The first electric vehicle expected to roll off the production line at Halewood is the next Range Rover Velar.*
## Significant Investment to Enhance Production Capabilities
Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has unveiled a substantial £250 million investment aimed at upgrading its Halewood facility in Merseyside. This funding is part of a larger £500 million initiative designed to prepare the plant for the production of the latest Range Rover models.
## Transitioning to Advanced Powertrains
The Halewood plant is undergoing a significant transformation to accommodate the production of new SUVs based on the upcoming Electric Modular Architecture (EMA) platform. This platform is versatile, supporting pure-combustion engines, hybrid systems, and fully electric powertrains.
## Expanding Facilities for Future Demand
The comprehensive £500 million investment has led to a major overhaul of the Halewood facility. The plant has been expanded by an impressive 30,006 square meters, allowing for the installation of a new body shop and extended production lines specifically designed for integrating batteries into electric vehicles (EVs). Additionally, the paint shop has been enlarged to meet the growing demand for customizable color options, including contrasting roofs.
## Upcoming Models to be Manufactured
As previously reported, the next-generation Land Rover Discovery Sport, Range Rover Evoque, Range Rover Velar, and a new compact ‘baby’ Defender model are all set to be produced at the Halewood site. The Velar is anticipated to be the first model to launch, with prototypes already spotted undergoing testing.
## Future Focus on Electric Vehicles
JLR has indicated that Halewood will eventually transition to exclusively manufacturing electric vehicles, suggesting a shift from its earlier commitment to make this change by next year. This aligns with the company’s broader strategy to adapt to the evolving automotive landscape.
## Increased Investment in Flexible Powertrains
In light of slower-than-expected growth in electric vehicle sales, JLR recently raised its five-year investment forecast from £15 billion to £18 billion. This increase is aimed at enhancing platforms that offer greater flexibility in powertrain options.
CFO Richard Molyneux emphasized the necessity of investing in multiple powertrains until a single technology emerges as the global leader. He noted, “We have one advantage over many in our industry in that we have not yet played our cards in the BEV game. Many competitors have placed their bets, done their investment, launched their cars, and quite a few have regretted it. It’s one of the advantages of being a follower rather than being first in the market.”
## Conclusion
With a clear focus on innovation and adaptability, Jaguar Land Rover’s investment in the Halewood plant marks a significant step toward a sustainable future in automotive manufacturing. As the company prepares to launch its next-generation electric vehicles, it positions itself strategically in a rapidly changing market.