The launch of Opel/Vauxhalls new Vivaro van is providing a boost for Britain, after 1,200 additional jobs were created at the automaker’s Luton, UK plant to manufacture the new vehicle.
The Western Morning News reports the Luton plant, which is the only factory in the country producing vans, received a £185 million investment to build the Vivaro. More than 70,000 vans will roll off the production each year for a model lifecycle of 10 years.
Additionally, service firms around the UK will deal an extra £600 million in business for jobs related to the plant and its retooling.
“The all-new Vivaro van is of critical importance to Vauxhall and its manufacturing facility in Luton. I’m very proud of the men and women who build this vehicle to world-class levels of quality and productivity, said Vauxhall managing director Tim Tozer. “Our customers will be delighted with the new Luton-built Vivaro. It offers the comfort and design of a passenger car but with class-leading practicality, improved cargo dimensions and excellent payload capability.”
Securing the Vivaro contract was critical for Britain’s manufacturing industry. The Luton plant has built vehicles for more than 100 years and almost lost the bid to French automaker Renault’s factory in Sandouville, Normandy. Renault and General Motors co-developed the new Vivaro program together.
“The launch of the new Vivaro is great news for British manufacturing. The plant at Luton, which has made such an important contribution to the local and national economy, has got a bright future thanks to the commitment of its workforce and ability to compete against the best in Europe,” British Business Secretary Vince Cable told The Western Morning News.
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