Lotus Cars has ‘no plans’ to close any factory

Sportscar maker Lotus has declared it has “no plans” to shut any manufacturing facility after it emerged the corporate was contemplating organising a brand new plant within the US.The BBC understands the enduring producer had been contemplating ending manufacturing at its headquarters in Hethel, Norfolk, which might put 1,300 jobs in danger.In an announcement on X, it mentioned: “Lotus Vehicles is constant regular operations, there aren’t any plans to shut any manufacturing facility,” however admitted it was “actively exploring” choices within the world market.The story was first reported by the Monetary Instances, however sources throughout the firm have informed the BBC the state of affairs was below evaluate they usually have been contemplating taking manufacturing to the US.It was understood Jonathan Reynolds, Secretary of State for Enterprise and Commerce, was set to carry talks with the house owners of the corporate.It comes after manufacturing in Hethel was briefly suspended attributable to disruption brought on by the introduction of tariffs on vehicles being imported to the US.America is a serious marketplace for Lotus however tariffs threaten its enterprise, as sellers within the US are required to pay 25% on imports of vehicles and automobile elements.Its assertion added: “Lotus stays dedicated to the UK, to our prospects, workers, sellers, suppliers, in addition to our proud British heritage.”