Lotus has confirmed it will cut 550 jobs at its Hethel site in Norfolk, following a review of its business strategy in light of shifting market conditions.
The announcement comes just months after the company dismissed speculation that it planned to close its UK factory in favour of a new facility in the United States. At the time, Lotus stressed its commitment to Britain while acknowledging it was also exploring opportunities abroad.
In a statement, the manufacturer said the decision was necessary “to secure a sustainable future for the company in today’s rapidly evolving automotive environment,” referring to uncertainties around global trade policies and tariffs.
Despite the cuts, Lotus emphasised that Norfolk would remain the base for its sports car production, motorsport operations and engineering consultancy. The brand also noted it was looking at ways to diversify its business model, which could include third-party manufacturing.
The Hethel site currently employs around 1,300 people, meaning the redundancies will affect more than a third of the workforce.
Lotus was founded by Colin Chapman in the 1950s and relocated to Hethel in the 1960s. It has always been one of Britain’s most recognisable sports car brands, and it would be extremely sad if the brand were to disappear.
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