2024 marks a pivotal year for EVs, with growth, regulation and debates on incentives as governments navigate the path to a sustainable transition.
What happened in May 2024
Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) is taking a decisive step toward an electric future by upskilling more than 20,000 employees and partners. The training initiative is part of the company’s commitment to accelerating the production of electric models for its iconic brands: Range Rover, Defender, Discovery and Jaguar.
Committing to skills development for EV growth
The growth of the EV industry relies heavily on rapidly developing and sharing critical new skills. JLR’s investment in workforce training aims to address this need, making EVs more accessible to consumers by lowering production, maintenance and repair costs.
The transition hinges on a skilled workforce. The Future Skills Programme equips our employees and partners with the expertise needed to lead in this space.
JLR’s Reimagine Strategy: A roadmap for sustainable luxury
JLR’s Reimagine strategy is central to its transformation, which blends modern luxury with sustainability.
The company is targeting carbon net-zero status across its entire supply chain, operations and products by 2039. Science-based targets to reduce emissions by 2030 support this ambitious goal.
ELECTRIFICATION IS AT THE HEART OF THIS VISION:
- By 2025, Jaguar will relaunch as an all-electric brand.
- Range Rover, Discovery and Defender will all feature pure electric versions by the decade’s end.
As a British-based company with a global footprint, JLR operates:
- Two design and engineering sites and three vehicle manufacturing facilities in the UK.
- An engine manufacturing centre and battery assembly centre in the UK.
- Vehicle plants in China, Brazil, India, Austria and Slovakia.
- Seven technology hubs worldwide.
JLR is a wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Motors Limited, which is part of Tata Sons.
Milestones in electrification training
Significant achievements in training and upskilling mark JLR’s efforts to prepare for an electric future:
- 20,000+ trained: Over 20,000 employees and partners have gained expertise in electrification and digital skills.
- 95% EV-trained technicians: 95% of global retail partner technicians are now trained to handle EVs.
- 11,000 in training: Manufacturing employees are trained to produce battery electric vehicles (BEVs).
- 950 new roles: In fiscal year 2024, JLR added 950 electrification-focused positions.
Electrification: A gateway to diverse opportunities
The shift to EVs is not just about technology—it’s opening doors for a more diverse workforce. EV roles are often process-oriented, making them accessible to individuals from various backgrounds, including neurodiverse employees.
Chloe Taylor, a JLR retail master technician, exemplifies this shift. Transitioning from combustion engine technology to high-voltage EV battery work, she noted, “I hope the move to EVs inspires more women to pursue careers in this field.”
Promoting diversity in STEM careers
JLR is committed to fostering inclusivity and diversity in STEM through various initiatives:
- Virtual work experience: Enrolled 2,000 participants in just eight weeks, with 31% being women and girls.
- Schools partnership programme: Encourages students from underrepresented backgrounds to consider STEM careers.
- Early Careers Scheme: Recruits diverse candidates via strategic partnerships.
- AI-driven inclusivity: Ensures job descriptions are accessible and appealing to a broad range of applicants.
With a clear vision for sustainable luxury and a robust strategy to upskill its workforce, JLR sets the stage for a transformative era in the automotive industry. By prioritising training, diversity and sustainability, JLR is advancing its Reimagine strategy and reshaping the EV landscape for generations to come.
