JLR extends factory shutdowns

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has extended the shutdown of its UK factories until at least October 1 after a cyber-attack halted production.

The luxury carmaker has been unable to manufacture vehicles at its plants since it was attacked early this month and a number of its suppliers are also struggling as a result.

JLR, owned by Tata Motors, has confirmed its facilities in Solihull, Halewood and Wolverhampton won’t resume operations until next month at the earliest, reports the BBC.

The company usually produces about 1,000 cars per day in the UK and the prolonged shutdown is reportedly costing it about £50 million (NZ$115m) a week. 

JLR’s UK plants employ about 30,000 people, many of whom have been told to stay at home while the closures continue, and its operations support more than 100,000 jobs in supply chains.

“Our focus remains on supporting our customers, suppliers, colleagues and our retailers who remain open,” JLR says.

“We fully recognise this is a difficult time for all connected with JLR and we thank everyone for their continued support and patience.”

No details have been released about who might be behind the attack on JLR.

Business Secretary Peter Kyle and Chris McDonald, Minister for Industry, visited JLR on September 23 to meet representatives from supply chain companies to discuss how the UK government can support them.

McDonald says the government’s priorities are helping Jaguar Land Rover get back up and running as soon as possible and the long-term health of the supply chain.