TVR does a runner…from the UK
Newswheel staff :: 18 October 2006 :: Filed under TVR, Europe & UK
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Broken promises? Europe ahoy...
It’s not quite curtains for TVR. But it is the end of the Blackpool-based sports car maker as we know it. TVR has announced plans to cease production of cars in the UK with the loss of 250 jobs from its Blackpool facility. The company said all production will be outsourced, with chassis and body production going to unnamed European third parties and engine production remaining in the UK…
Just a few weeks ago, TVR said it was in negotiation with Blackpool council regarding a new production facility in the northern city. The company is now hammering out a redundancy deal with various unions for its unfortunate employees. Until the dust settles and details of TVR’s outsourcing plans become clear, there’s little more to say other than to hope for the best and pass on this official comment from TVR:
“Staff at TVR’s Blackpool factory have been informed today that the company is planning to outsource all production.
Agreements are being finalised for the 2007 run of Tuscan, Tuscan Convertible and Sagaris to be produced in Europe while fully built powertrains – straight six, four-litre TVR engines including clutch and gearbox – are due to be produced in the UK.
TVR owner Nikolai Smolenski said: “We are extremely sorry that, after a period of uncertainty and raised hopes that we could continue production ourselves in Blackpool, we have had to make this decision.
“We need to secure the future of the company and move it forward. I am afraid we see no other way to do so.”
Consultation has begun with staff and the Transport & General Workers Union on redundancy and counselling support is being put in place.
TVR plans to continue with all current arrangements for the supply of cars and parts. Discussions are being held with key suppliers about future relationships.
Mr Smolenski continued: “We are acutely aware of the shock and distress this will cause for our staff and their families. We will ensure that we meet all our responsibilities towards them over the coming months.
“We would also like to express our gratitude to all those who have worked with us over the past months to try to maintain the company in Blackpool.
“We shall be making further announcements in due course about our plans which we believe represent a major advance for the proud name of TVR. But for the time being we are concentrating on our staff in Blackpool and the consultation process.”
Over but hopefully not out.
Posted 20 October 2006, by Ben Collins
hmmmm will it actually turn up elsewhere?
As old as Porsche and Ferrari, with cars more stunning and individual, especially late models.
A shame but no mystery, 90mph on a wet motorway (or 230kmh on an autobahn) with no ABS, anti yaw etc, or airbags, yikes, no thanks.
Even playboys want safety and reliability, without endless servicing, cars are after all a means of getting around.
Could be awesome collectables though, 2002 Tuscan :oP