Revving Back to Life: JLR Set to Resume Production After Cyber-Attack Setback

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) is gearing up to restart its production lines after a significant cyber-attack that halted operations beginning early September. The resumption will kick off on Wednesday, with a phased approach involving staff reintroduction at several key sites in West Midlands and Merseyside.

Production had been suspended for over a month, impacting not only JLR’s output but also the finances of its direct suppliers, many of whom faced layoffs and dwindling revenues due to the prolonged shutdown. To alleviate economic strain, JLR has initiated a fast-track payment program targeting crucial suppliers first, ensuring they receive payments for new orders more quickly—potentially up to 120 days earlier than usual.

The Wolverhampton engine plant and Hams Hall’s battery assembly centre will be the first to proceed with production along with the body preparation facilities at Castle Bromwich, Halewood, and Solihull. JLR hopes to follow this by resuming vehicle manufacturing in Nitra, Slovakia, with expectations that Range Rover production in Solihull may also commence shortly thereafter. However, the return to normal operations is expected to be gradual, with industry experts skeptical about a quick fix.

The company has revealed stark figures illustrating a 24.2% dip in wholesale sales from the past year, contributing to a challenging phase for the automaker exacerbated by model transitions and export tariffs. Meanwhile, suppliers have voiced concerns that the support provided so far is inadequate, emphasizing a dire need for government intervention to assist companies on the brink due to this crisis.

Peter Kyle, the Business and Trade Secretary, acknowledged the resumption as positive news but signaled that many in the supply chain continue to face immense pressure. His commitment remains focused on overcoming this cyber incident while promoting the health of the overall automotive supply chain.