Next-generation EV inverter manufacturing to create jobs in Bolton
Astemo, a global designer and manufacturer of automotive componentary, has unveiled plans to create and safeguard 200 automotive engineering and manufacturing roles at its facility in Bolton. The site will be the base for multiple new inverter production lines, to support the next-generation of electric vehicle (EV) powertrains, from April 2027. The new production lines are backed by the UK Government via the Automotive Transformation Fund (ATF), led by the Department for Business and Trade in partnership with the Advanced Propulsion Centre.
Under the Government's new DRIVE35 programme, the ATF will continue to unlock private investment in strategic zero-emission vehicle technologies in the UK. Astemo UK's next-generation inverters have been purpose-engineered to deliver excellent efficiency, while being both compact and lightweight for easy powertrain integration. By manufacturing the equipment in Europe, the product will comply with the green procurement policies of major regional OEMs and can contribute to an overall reduction in Scope 3 emissions throughout the supply chain.
Astemo Senior Executive VP, Toru Kamioke, said: "We are honored by the UK Government's support, which reflects the high regard it has for our electrification technology. This investment in our Bolton plant will mark the fourth country in which Astemo manufactures electrification products, following Japan, the US and China, and is an important landmark in our global electrification supply chain.
Through the supply of products from the Bolton plant, we will respond to Europe's EV market growth, while contributing to job creation and the development of the UK automotive industry." Astemo UK Managing Director, Lee Owens, said: "We are immensely grateful for the support from the UK Government and I'm excited and proud for the future of the Bolton site.
The Governement's support is a testament to the dedication they're showing to the automotive industry and the economy of the North West, while also reinforcing the UK's overall commitment to innovation and excellence. The creation and safeguarding of over 200 jobs will expand and develop our highly skilled workforce and will undoubtedly have a profound impact on the local community. We are committed in delivering a world class product and growing the Bolton plant into a UK hub of excellence for power electronics manufacturing."
Business and Trade Secretary, Jonathan Reynolds, said: "Astemo investing over GBP100 million into its UK site is a huge win for Bolton and Greater Manchester and a vote of confidence in our Plan for Change. It will create and safeguard more than 200 jobs, putting more money in local people's pockets.
"We're helping British auto manufacturers get to the front of the pack by working hand in hand with investors to build a globally competitive zero-emission vehicle supply chain in the UK.
"Security for working people is our number one priority, and by backing our world leading auto sector we are creating the right conditions for increased investment, bringing growth, jobs, and opportunities to every part of the UK."