Jaguar Land Rover delivers best ever full year global sales performance retailing 425,006 vehicles in 2013, up 19%

• New sales records set in thirty eight international markets for both brands
• Jaguar delivers strongest full year performance since 2005 retailing 76,668 vehicles, up 42%
• Land Rover sets another full year record retailing 348,338 vehicles, up 15%
• Jaguar is the fastest growing brand in Germany, India and the USA
• Global sales success driven by range of new and award winning product introductions
• Jaguar and Land Rover models receive more than 195 international awards with the Jaguar F-TYPE the most decorated vehicle

Jaguar Land Rover, the UK's leading manufacturer of premium luxury vehicles has delivered its strongest ever full year global sales performance thanks to the introduction of a series of multi award winning new vehicles in 2013. Full year retail sales stood at 425,006, up 19%, with strong growth in all major regions and new records set in 38 markets, including Russia, Brazil, Korea and Canada. Regional performance for the full year was as follows: Asia Pacific and the China region up 30%, North America up 21%, the UK up 14%, Europe up 6%, and other overseas markets up 23%.

Commenting on the company’s sales performance, Dr. Ralf Speth, Jaguar Land Rover CEO said: “2013 has proven to be a very positive year for Jaguar Land Rover thanks to continuing strong demand for vehicles across the range. Our unrelenting focus on design, technology, innovation and quality has seen Jaguar Land Rover reach global consumers in more markets than ever before thanks to its most desirable product line-up, enriched further in 2013 by the Jaguar F-TYPE and all-new Range Rover Sport”.

2013 Awards 

Jaguar Land Rover‘s enhanced stable of products received 195 awards in 2013. Jaguar received 80 awards with its most decorated model, the F-TYPE earning the World Car Design of the Year, Germany’s most prestigious award, The Golden Steering Wheel award for the Cabriolet & Coupe Category and BBC Topgear magazine Convertible of the year. Notably Jaguar also received coveted recognition from J.D. Power, being named the UK’s number one automotive brand in the Vehicle Ownership Satisfaction Survey (VOSS) and the highest ranking manufacturer among luxury brands in the US J.D. Power Sales Satisfaction Index Study (SSI).

Land Rover’s full range of vehicles received 115 honours in 2013 with Range Rover topping the Land Rover awards table with 55 accolades including, Luxury Car of the Year by What Car? in the UK, Women’s Luxury Car of the Year by the Women’s World Car of the Year jury and Best Luxury SUV from Edmunds.com and Forbes. Range Rover also achieved the Highest APEAL Score of any model in the J.D. Power 2013 APEAL survey – the first time a model outside the large premium car segment has ranked highest among all models in the industry. The Range Rover Sport, launched in 2013 also received a host of awards including, SUV of the Year by Topgear magazine, Guangzhou Daily in China, Bloomberg.com and EVO magazine in the Middle East.

Jaguar 2013 Sales Performance

Jaguar recorded a 42% year on year increase in sales, selling 76,668 vehicles in 2013 - its strongest full year sales performance since 2005 with new records set in 17 markets including, Brazil, India, Russia and China. The iconic British motoring marque also emerged as the fastest growing premium brand in the USA, Germany and India in 2013. This strong global performance was primarily driven by F-TYPE introduction and a new annual record for XF retailing 47,391 saloon and Sportbrake derivatives. XJ also delivered its best full year performance for ten years with 19,677 vehicle sales with particular strong demand from North America and China thanks to the introduction of the All-Wheel Driveline and an enhanced engine line up which includes the 3.0 V6 and 2.0 4-cylinder petrol engines.

Jaguar delivered year on year increases in every major region with North America now the brand’s top selling region. Full year regional performances were as follows: the China Region up significantly, North America up 44%, Asia Pacific up 33%, Europe up 17%, the UK up 15% and other overseas markets up 31%.

Land Rover 2013 Sales Performance

Land Rover set a new full year sales record retailing 348,338 vehicles in 2013, up 15% on the prior year following record sales of the Range Rover and Range Rover Evoque and an incredible performance from all- new Range Rover Sport which was close to equaling its prior record set in 2007, despite having only been on sale for part of the year. The Freelander 2 also delivered a very strong full year performance, up 20% on the prior year.

Sales were up for Land Rover in every major region with annual sales records set in 42 markets, including the UK, USA, Brazil and India.  Full year regional performances were as follows: Asia Pacific up 29%, the China Region up 17%, North America up 15%, the UK up 13%, Europe up 4%, and other overseas markets up 22%.

Commenting on the sales success, Andy Goss, Jaguar Land Rover Group Sales Operations Director said: “2013 has been a great year in which we have seen some incredibly exciting new models launched to customers across the world. The Range Rover Sport, F-TYPE, new engines and drivetrains, and a number of 14 Model Year enhancements to our existing line up have seen Jaguar Land Rover continue to build strong sales momentum in every global region.

It is not just our customers who are delighting in our strongest ever vehicle line up, international journalists bestowed almost 200 awards on our vehicles in 2013 with the F-TYPE, our star performer receiving more than 59 accolades. This recognition is a demonstration that Jaguar Land Rover’s focus is on delivering cars that surpass customer expectations.”

Jaguar Land Rover delivers strong retail performance in November

• Jaguar Land Rover delivers strong November sales performance retailing 37,403 vehicles, up 25%
• Jaguar sells 6,244 vehicles in November, up 55%
• Land Rover sells 31,159 vehicles in November, up 20%
• Calendar year to date Jaguar Land Rover sells 384,339 vehicles, up 19%

Jaguar Land Rover, the UK’s leading manufacturer of premium luxury vehicles continues its sales success with a strong November performance, retailing 37,403 vehicles in the month, up 25% versus the same period last year. During the first eleven months of the year, Jaguar Land Rover sold 384,339 vehicles, up 19%.

Sustained sales growth continues for Jaguar Land Rover with increases in: the China Region up 42%, North America up 37%, Asia Pacific up 32%, Europe up 7%, other overseas markets up 42%, with UK sales consistent with the previous year. Sales for the first eleven months of the year were up in all major regions with Asia Pacific up 30%, the China Region up 28%, North America up 21%, the UK up 14%, Europe up 6% and other overseas markets up 23%.

Commenting on the November performance Andy Goss, Jaguar Land Rover Group Sales Operations Director said: “November has been another solid month in what has so far, been a great year for Jaguar Land Rover. Our continued sales success is a testament to our sustained investment in new and exciting products which are driving growth internationally and attracting new customers to our brands”.

Jaguar

In November, Jaguar sold 6,244 vehicles up 55% reflecting particularly strong demand for the XJ and all XF derivatives, up 62% and 39% respectively. Jaguar demonstrated significant growth in the China Region, with North America up 105%, Asia Pacific up 62%, Europe up 5%, other overseas markets up 16%, The UK was down 5% as the registration year comes to an end.

Calendar year to date, Jaguar sold 69,655 vehicles up 42% with increases in each major region: the China Region up 144%, North America up 44%, Asia Pacific up 30%, the UK up 17%, Europe up 17% and other overseas markets up 31%.

Land Rover

In November, Land Rover sold 31,159 vehicles, up 20% with strong performances from all models in the range: Defender up 27% and Range Rover Evoque up 10%. Range Rover and Range Rover Sport continue to sell well across all markets. Land Rover demonstrated growth in all major regions: North America up 25%, Asia Pacific up 25%, China Region up 27%, the UK showed an improvement, Europe up 7% and other overseas markets up 45%.

Calendar year to date, Land Rover sold 314,684 vehicles up 14% with increases in all major regions: Asia Pacific up 31%, North America up 15%, UK up 13%, China Region  up 14%, Europe up 4% and other overseas markets up 22%.

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Jaguar Land Rover parent says company is 'safe in our hands'

The owner of Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has vowed that quality and brand values will not be compromised by its overseas expansion plans – and vowed to support the business for decades.

Last week, JLR announced it will open a manufacturing plant in Brazil in a £240m investment, with the first cars expected to roll off the production line by 2016.

This will follow the opening of a joint venture investment worth £1.5bn in China, with Chinese carmaker Chery, due to open in 2015.

Although JLR has not revealed what models will be produced in China and Brazil, Halewood’s popular Range Rover Evoque, which has taken the global market by storm since its launch more than two years ago, will be an obvious contender.

Roger Maddison, chief car industry negotiator for Unite the Union, said he sees no threat to UK jobs from the two proposed international plants.

But concerns have been raised about what impact they could have on the renowned British design qualities of JLR models, and the supreme quality of manufacturing at a company that prides itself on the high standards of its three UK plants in the West Midlands and Knowsley’s Halewood.

However, in an interview at Tata’s global headquarters in Mumbai, Mr Mukund Govind Rajan allayed any fears of compromise on JLR's standards.

He is a member of Tata’s group executive council and also brand custodian and chief ethics officer for the global conglomerate.

He told the Liverpool Post: “In China, setting up shop, a lot has to do with local recruitment and the value of training.”

JLR recently completed  a three- month training programme for China's “first joiners” who were tutored at Halewood in quality standards and will pass on their skills to the rest of the Chinese workforce.

Mr Rajan added: “We have terrific practices in the company and translating this to new facilities is not much of an issue.

“The brand will not undergo any changes in these markets. JLR brands will remain.

“Customers across the world have an affinity to JLR brands and the last thing we need to do as an owner is disrupt that relationship.

“We don’t want to create any kind of trouble for these brands.”

Mr Rajan said Tata had been delighted with the performance of JLR since it bought the group from Ford for £1.15bn and injected a further £1.5bn in 2009 to ensure its survival during one of the worst downturns in the automotive sector in decades.

And he reassured the UK workforce that Tata will be the custodian of JLR for decades to come.

“We have been delighted with the way the company and employees responded to the challenges at JLR,” he said.

“It is not about how do we save cash and cut back. It is about what do we do to build the business in the next 50 years. We don’t enter businesses easily, but when we do we are in it for the long term.

“We are not an aggressive, acquisitive entity, firing management and stripping assets and moving on. We build in the long term.”

When Tata bought JLR,  it also acquired Corus Steel in the UK and Mr Rajan admitted that there was a perception among Indian commentators and market analysts that the JLR deal was the “dodgier” of the two, but he said: “On current form,  JLR is turning out to be one of our outstanding successes.

“We work with the unions and the community and with JLR we have been very lucky and fortunate.

“There is a fair amount of satisfaction that a lot of growth has been seen and perhaps it has surprised the company, particularly the growth in China.

“But when we went in, this company had tradition and a legacy and a very interesting product pipeline and smart managers.

“We committed capital to ensure that pipeline was delivered and we needed leadership that was willing to give people the space to pursue their dreams.

“JLR meant a lot to the Tata group and they have a lot of time for the company and the new owners that inspired the managers.

“They knew we were watching and waiting for their success. It says a lot about the quality of the people we have there.”

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Jaguar Land Rover to build plant in Brazil, the first British car maker to do so.

• Agreement signed with the State of Rio de Janeiro to build a Jaguar Land Rover manufacturing facility
• Jaguar Land Rover will invest R$750m (£240m) in the programme
• Plant will have an annual production capacity of 24,000 vehicles
• Plant will initially employ 400 people, generating additional jobs in the supply chain
• First vehicles to come off the assembly line in 2016

Jaguar Land Rover is to become the first British carmaker to open a manufacturing facility in Brazil following a landmark agreement between the company and state authorities to build a plant in the State of Rio de Janeiro.

An agreement paving the way for construction of the plant has been signed by Phil Hodgkinson, Global Business Expansion Director of Jaguar Land Rover, and Sergio Cabral, State Governor of Rio de Janeiro.

Jaguar Land Rover’s planned expansion into Brazil is the next major step in the company’s strategy to increase its global manufacturing footprint and create additional capacity. This new facility will play an important role in supporting the significant growth opportunity identified in Brazil and across other South American markets.

Dr Ralf Speth, CEO of Jaguar Land Rover, said: “Brazil and the surrounding regions are very important. Customers there have an increasing appetite for highly capable premium products.

“This new programme will enable us to bring exciting new vehicles to them, with outstanding British design and engineering, creating a world-class Jaguar Land Rover facility incorporating leading premium manufacturing technologies.

“We have established excellent working relationships with the State of Rio de Janeiro, the City of Itatiaia & the Rio de Janeiro State Industrial Development Company and we look forward to attracting new customers to our business in this important market.”

Based in the City of Itatiaia, the new programme represents a total investment of R$750m (£240m) by 2020.

Construction of the premium manufacturing facility will commence in mid-2014. It is anticipated that the first vehicles will come off the assembly line in 2016, subject to the final approval of the plans from the Brazilian Federal Government under its Inovar-auto Programme. The new plant will have a capacity to build 24,000 vehicles annually for the Brazilian market.

Initially, the plant will employ almost 400 people. This number is expected to almost double by the end of the decade. This new manufacturing facility will also create additional jobs across the local supply chain network.

Following a detailed feasibility study, Jaguar Land Rover selected the City of Itatiaia, close to the heart of the emerging Regional Automotive Zone, due to its excellent logistics links, access to the local supplier base and skilled workforce.

Sergio Cabral, Governor of Rio de Janeiro State commented: "The choice of Rio de Janeiro to host the Jaguar Land Rover’s new facility is another historic achievement for our state. We offer perfect conditions to JLR to install its plant in Brazil, as we have an automotive hub in the South Fluminense region that concentrates qualified labour and important suppliers.

It is a privilege to welcome this great group, with an estimated investment of up to R$750 million and we are confident that this agreement will bring to Brazil extraordinary results."

Jaguar Land Rover in Brazil

Jaguar Land Rover has had a presence in the Brazilian market for more than 20 years. Its national sales company is based in Sao Paulo, employing almost 100 people. There are currently 35 dealers across Brazil with further expansion planned in the next year.

So far in 2013, Jaguar Land Rover sales in Brazil have increased by more than 40% to 9,549 vehicles over the 10 month period. The best-selling models in Brazil are Range Rover Evoque, Freelander and Discovery.

Jaguar, Land Rover posts huge sales increases across the board

• Jaguar Land Rover North America increases 37 percent in November, for its best November sales result since 2005
• Jaguar continues industry-leading growth streak with 103 percent growth in November on new XF and XJ All Wheel Drive models and F-TYPE sales
• Land Rover brand has its best ever November sales increasing 25 percent on strong Range Rover and Range Rover Evoque demand

Jaguar Land Rover North America today reported November 2013 U.S. sales: Jaguar sales were 1,446 units, 103 percent up from 713 units in November 2012; Land Rover sales reached an all-time November high of 4,601 units, up 25 percent from 3,687 units in November 2012. Jaguar Land Rover North America November U.S. sales for both brands hit 6,047 units, a 37 percent increase from 4,400 units in November 2012.

Year to date through November, Jaguar Land Rover North America is up 21 percent, with Jaguar up 41 percent and Land Rover up 15 percent.

"Jaguar Land Rover's U.S. business is growing for both brands and across SUVs, sports cars and luxury sedans," said Andy Goss, Group Sales Operations Director, Jaguar Land Rover. "The Jaguar brand has doubled its November U.S. business and Land Rover had its best U.S. November sales ever. We look forward to a strong end-of-year as we strive for benchmark annual results for both brands."

U.S. BRAND HIGHLIGHTS

Land Rover
Range Rover sales were 1,292 units, up 267 percent from 352 in its run out month in November, 2012. Year to date, the Range Rover model is up 60 percent from 2012. In the 2013 J.D. Power 2013 U.S. APEAL Study, the Range Rover was the industry's highest scoring model.

Range Rover Evoque increased 21 percent to 1091 units from 904 units in November, 2012.  Year to date, the Range Rover Evoque is up 31 percent.

Year to date, Land Rover brand is up 15 percent from 2012.

Land Rover's 2014 model year line-up features five models: The 240-hp 2.0 liter powered LR2 and Range Rover Evoque; the LR4 powered by the supercharged 340-hp V6; the Range Rover Sport and Range Rover, both available with the 340-hp V6 and 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains.

Jaguar
For the month of November, the Jaguar XF was the Jaguar volume and growth leader with 656 units sold, up 92 percent from 341 sales in November 2012. Year to date, the XF is up 42 percent. The current MY XF lineup includes the new 2.0T model as well as all-wheel-drive and V-6 options.

The Jaguar XJ sales were 465 units, up 75 percent from 266 in November, 2012. All-wheel-drive models now make up approximately half of all XJ sales.

The F-TYPE convertible sports car added 222 units this month.  The F-TYPE Coupe was introduced at the Los Angeles International Automobile Show in November and goes on sale in spring, 2014.

Year to date, Jaguar sales are 15,408, up 41 percent from 10,962 sales, with both XJ and XF sales increasing on the appeal of new powertrains and all-wheel-drive.

For MY14 the transformed Jaguar U.S. lineup includes:

Instinctive All Wheel Drive™ - Available on both the XF and XJ
Supercharged 340hp V6 engines in the XF and XJ
Turbocharged 240hp four cylinder engine available in the XF
Eight Speed ZF® Automatic Transmissions on all XF and XJ models
Auto Engine Stop/Start on select XF and XJ models

The 2014 Jaguar line-up features four models: The Jaguar XJ luxury sedan, powered by a 340-hp supercharged V6 in rear-wheel or all-wheel-drive configuration, a 470-hp supercharged V8 or a 550-hp supercharged V8 in the XJR model. The Jaguar XF sports sedan powered by a 240-hp turbocharged four cylinder, a 340-hp supercharged V6 in rear-wheel or all-wheel-drive configurations, a 470-hp supercharged V8, a 510-hp Supercharged V8 in the XFR, and a 550-hp Supercharged V8 in the XFR-S. The XK coupe and convertible grand touring cars are powered by either a 385-hp V8 or a 510-hp supercharged V8 in the XKR. Jaguar also offers its highest performance models ever, the 2014 Jaguar XKR-S coupe and convertible with a 550-hp supercharged V8.  The 2014 MY Jaguar F-TYPE convertible comes in three variants, 340-hp F-TYPE, 380-hp F-TYPE S and 495-hp F-TYPE V8 S.

Jaguar Land Rover posts higher sales, profits and revenue for Q2

Jaguar Land Rover Automotive plc has today reported its second quarter earnings for the 2013/2014 fiscal year.

Retail sales in the quarter increased 21% year on year to 102,644 vehicles. This reflects strong demand for the new and refreshed Jaguar and Land Rover line up which was enhanced during this period by Jaguar’s 14MY introductions, the sales debut of the Jaguar F-TYPE and Range Rover Sport and a strong Range Rover performance.

Strong global sales volumes resulted in revenues of £4,612m for the second quarter, up 40% on the same period last year.

Profit before tax increased to £668m for the quarter supported by strong sales.

For the first half of the 2013/2014 fiscal year the company reported retail sales of 197,363, up 16% year on year. Revenues were £8,709m, up 26% year on year and profit before tax was £1,083m, up 42% year on year.

Commenting on the results, Jaguar Land Rover Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Ralf Speth said: "Our unrelenting focus on design, technology, innovation and quality has seen Jaguar Land Rover reach global consumers in more markets than ever before thanks to its most engaging product line-up.

“Our customers are at the heart of everything we do and we remain committed to exceeding expectations and delivering outstanding customer experience in all areas of our business.”   

Land Rover celebrates second year as "Carmaker of the year" from Motor Trader.

LAND ROVER’S policy of sustained investment and the development of new product has secured it a major award for the second year in a row.

The Solihull-based firm, which has introduced the all-new flagship Range Rover and the new Sport version within the past year, has been named Motor Trader’s Carmaker of the Year, repeating its 2012 success.

Motor Trader’s judging panel said it had been impressed by the strength of the Land Rover brand, its increasingly attractive product range and the investment that has been made to secure a healthy, long-term future for the business. It also took into account Land Rover’s position in the National Franchised Dealers Association’s Dealer Attitude Survey as the British motor trade’s most valued brand in terms of profitability and overall attractiveness.

Jeremy Hicks, Managing Director Jaguar Land Rover UK, said: “This award is of special significance for Land Rover as it recognises the strength and depth of our strategy to secure lasting success for the business.

“Developing great vehicles is an important part of that, but it’s essential, too, that we make our brand one that the motor trade values and trusts. That’s of particular importance in the challenging marketplace we are working in. We have a great network of dealers in the UK and this award serves also as recognition of the faith they have in Land Rover and the great service they are delivering to our customers.”

Curtis Hutchinson, Motor Trader editor, said: “Land Rover is the brand and franchise that dealers want. It has come a long way in recent years and, in terms of profitability, it has to be Land Rover.

“It has delivered a succession of stylish new models, which are lighter and more environmentally friendly, while retaining the 4x4 qualities for which it is renowned. It broke new ground with the launch of the new Evoque, which has been an instant hit in the marketplace and a huge sales success. For Land Rover, it was exactly the right car at the right time.”

The Carmaker of the Year Award is given to the manufacturer which, in the opinion of a panel of judges, has excelled in producing new models, successfully marketing them and building close relationships with its dealer network.

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Is Land Rover about to rename the Freelander 2 a Discovery ?

Land Rover may rebadge its Freelander medium SUV as a Discovery when the model's successor goes on sale in 2015.

Such a move would create a Discovery subbrand for Land Rover, with the new vehicle slotting in below the current Discovery large SUV.

The Freelander's successor will be bigger than the current model and will also have a seven-seat variant, so it's likely that it will get a new name, a person familiar with the plan told Automotive News Europe.

Land Rover already has a similar naming strategy for the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport. The Freelander is sold as the LR2 in the United States and the Discovery is badged as the LR4.

Bernstein Research analyst Max Warburton said renaming the Freelander would be simpler for potential customers.

Currently the Freelander and Discovery are grouped together under "leisure" in Land Rover's "three pillars" design strategy. Range Rover-badged cars come under "luxury" while the Defender is "dual purpose."

Land Rover wouldn't comment on its plans for the new Freelander.

The Freelander replacement will be built on a version of the current Freelander's steel platform and production will remain at Jaguar Land Rover's plant in Halewood, England.

According to Bernstein, the Freelander is the only model in the Land Rover range that isn't profitable once r&d expenditure and other fixed costs have been factored.

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Land Rover Ambassador re-creats Scott's Terra Nova expedition in Discovery 4

• Land Rover Global Ambassador and professional explorer Ben Saunders sets off on the most ambitious polar expedition in more than 100 years
• A 1,800-mile, four-month unsupported return journey from the coast of Antarctica to the South Pole on foot that will retrace the route taken by Captain Scott on his ill-fated Terra Nova expedition more than a century ago

Land Rover Global Brand Ambassador and Polar explorer Ben Saunders and fellow adventurer Tarka L’Herpiniere will today set out from Scott’s Hut, Antarctica on day one of their world record-breaking return journey from the edge of the continent to the South Pole and back.

At 1800 miles it will be the longest unsupported polar journey in history and first completion of Captain Scott’s iconic ill-fated 1910-12 Terra Nova expedition.

Land Rover is a co-presenting partner of The Scott Expedition, which promises challenges that reflect the spirit of adventure, capability and rugged quality that are fundamental to Land Rover’s brand and heritage.

Ben’s Land Rover Discovery has played a vital part in assisting his training, which often takes place in hard to reach places in the UK, Europe and Greenland. Ben’s preparation for the expedition also included the use of the Cold Climate Chamber at Jaguar Land Rover. The chamber is an integral part of the development of all Jaguar Land Rover Products.

Follow the Scott Expedition

The duo will be blogging daily at www.scottexpedition.com/blog and plan to share regular images and video (an expedition first) as well as copy across a host of social media channels while away:

JLR invests heavily in new plant for Castle Bromwich site.

VEHICLE manufacturer Jaguar Land Rover is gearing up for a major increase in production at its Castle Bromwich plant after a massive new order for plant infrastructure.

The plant, which manufactures Jaguar cars, is already scaling up production where in addition to the XK, XF and XJ models it also now produces the two-seater F-Type sports car.

The company has also announced it is to increase volumes significantly by producing a new small sports saloon, although this will be made at the nearby Lode Lane plant in Solihull where £1.5bn is being invested in new production facilities.

To facilitate growth at Castle Bromwich, the Indian-owned business has placed an order for five massive new overhead cranes for its press shop.

Materials Handling World said the company had placed an order for five Konecranes for the factory. The cranes are all from Konecranes UK's Smarton SMT range and will operate on average spans of 27 to 29 metres.

Two of the cranes are 60 tonnes - one of which is to be a 60/30 tonne with two trolleys where both hooks are equipped with motorised rotation. In another bay, and operating with similar features to the two 60t cranes, will be two 32 tonne heavy duty cranes. The fifth crane will be a 30 tonne model.

The magazine said the contract also specified the dismantling and relocation of an existing 50 tonne Konecrane. The new cranes will all be delivered from Konecranes UK's manufacturing facility in East Kilbride during March 2014.

The contract is a further indication of JLR’s long-term plans for the future of the Castle Bromwich plant.

The company has already bought up a multiplex cinema on a site next to the factory n order to cater for expansion, while it is also in talks to acquire the nearby Dunlop Motorsport factory to provide further space.

It is thought the company will also unveil a coupe version of the F-Type at the Los Angeles next month, although it has yet to confirm whether a 4x4 concept crossover Jaguar, which was displayed at the Frankfurt Motor Show, will be put into production.  

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Jaguar Land Rover announces significant sales improvements for the UK in September.

Jaguar Land Rover UK is celebrating record September sales with retail figures up 13 per cent year-to-date over the same period last year.

Land Rover had its best ever September month of sales with 10,769 vehicles registered; up 11 per cent on the same month last year and 13 per cent up year-to-date. The bookends of the brand drove the impressive figures with a record September for the Land Rover Defender (up 30 per cent compared to the same period last year) and continued strong sales of Land Rover's flagship vehicle, the all new Range Rover (up 24 per cent compared to the same period last year).

The Range Rover Evoque continues to be successful (up 35 per cent September 2013 versus September 2012) and the new Range Rover Sport has made a strong start with sales of 1,309 vehicles during what is only the second month of customer deliveries. Monthly retail figures for Land Rover's newest model are set to increase in line with production ramp-up and will see the UK fulfil its healthy order bank over the coming months.

The Land Rover Discovery's popularity remains with outstanding residual values and class-leading versatility keeping sales stable. The Land Rover Freelander continues to have an excellent 2013 with retails up 13 per cent in September and 35 per cent year-to-date.

Jaguar is celebrating a 19 per cent increase in car sales year-to-date, with a year on year increase across its model range of seven per cent. The successful launch of the stunning new F-TYPE convertible sports car, of which more than 1,000 are now with UK customers, is one highlight in a year which has seen a surge in sales of the popular Jaguar XF executive car and XJ luxury saloon. In 2013 sales of the XF are up 12 per cent and XJ 6 per cent; a result of the introduction of new, efficient and high performance derivatives of each model.

Jeremy Hicks, Jaguar Land Rover UK Managing Director, said “The September sales figures tangibly demonstrate that both Jaguar and Land Rover continue to focus on relevant and highly-desirable product line-ups.

“With the recent introduction of the all-new Range Rover Sport and F-TYPE coupled with the continued success of our well established models, we have seen more new customers than ever purchasing Jaguar Land Rover award-winning products. Indeed, our new 2014 model year offerings across both brands will be hitting showrooms shortly and will see us build on the successes of the 2013 range."

Jaguar land Rover seek partner to assist in Hybrid tech to lower Corporate CO2 figures

Jaguar Land Rover is talking with other automakers about a partnership on hybrid vehicles as the UK luxury car manufacturer battles to meet CO2 emissions targets in Europe.

"Some discussions have taken place with other manufacturers," Wolfgang Epple, JLR's research and technology head, told Automotive News Europe. He declined to identify which companies JLR has spoken with.

Epple has previous experience in collaborating with other automakers on hybrids. As vice president of hybrid technology at BMW he worked with General Motors and DaimlerChrysler on the development of a transmission in the United States to channel both gasoline and electric power.

Epple said the cost-saving cooperation, which started in 2005, was successful. "Subsequently each of the manufacturers has built its own car and we have all used the same components," he said.

JLR will start selling diesel-hybrid versions of the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport early next year. According to the company, these models will reduce CO2 by 26 percent compared with the standard V-6 diesels on which they are based. The two SUVs will not be sold in the United States.

Jaguar Land Rover has to make the biggest improvements of any automaker to reach the European Union's CO2 target for 2015, according to a report by analyst Bernstein Research.

"Arguably the single biggest challenge for JLR is hitting future fuel economy/CO2 emissions," report author Max Warburton wrote. "It will need to fit hybrid to a greater proportion of its vehicles than almost any other manufacturer in order to hit CO2 targets."

According to the Bernstein report, JLR must cut average CO2 emissions to 164 grams per kilometer by 2015 to meet European regulations. According to JLR, the company's average CO2 figure in 2011 was 206g/km, down from 223g/km in 2010.

The 164g/km target, which is higher than the overall industry goal of 130g/km, reflects the higher average weight of Land Rover and Jaguar vehicles, the company said.

Earlier this month JLR said it would produce three electric concepts based on the Range Rover Evoque compact SUV in a development study partly funded by the UK government's Technology Strategy Board. Partners in the project to develop a mild hybrid, a plug-in hybrid and a full-electric vehicle will include British drivetrain specialist GKN, the engineering arm of the Williams F1 team and British battery vehicle maker Zytek.

JLR is also investing in a new advanced research center in the UK. Hybrids will be a key area of focus when the center opens in 2016.

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Jaguar Land Rover surge sales in competitive US market.

• Jaguar Land Rover North America increases 1 percent in September
• Jaguar continues U.S. growth streak with 31 percent growth in  September on new XF and XJ all wheel drive models and F-TYPE sales
• Land Rover Range Rover and Range Rover Evoque see strong increases in September, up 23 percent and 26 percent respectively
• Land Rover U.S. sales decrease 7 percent for month due to tight supply of Range Rover Sport during launch; Land Rover brand up 12 percent year-to-date

Jaguar Land Rover North America today reported September 2013 U.S. sales: Jaguar sales were 1,313 units, 31 percent up from 1,004 units in September 2012; Land Rover sales were 3,387 units, down 7 percent from 3,636 units in September 2012. Jaguar Land Rover North America September U.S. sales for both brands hit 4,700 units, a 1 percent increase from 4,640 units in September 2012.

Year to date through September, Jaguar Land Rover North America is up 16 percent, with Jaguar up 30 percent and Land Rover up 12 percent.

"Jaguar brand, led by our updated lineup of sedans and sports cars, continues to be one of the hottest brands in the business, with a thirty percent rise in September," said Andy Goss, President, Jaguar Land Rover North America. "On the Land Rover side, the Range Rover and Range Rover Evoque continued their consistent growth pace this year, though overall sales were down for the month as we ramp up supply of the new Range Rover Sport to meet demand."

U.S. BRAND HIGHLIGHTS

Land Rover
Range Rover Evoque was the growth leader for Land Rover in September, with an increase of 26 percent to 706 units from 559 units in September, 2012.  Year to date, the Range Rover Evoque is up 31 percent.

Range Rover sales were 693 units, up 23 percent from 564 in September, 2012. Year to date, the Range Rover model is up 39 percent from 2012. In the 2013 J.D. Power 2013 U.S. APEAL Study, the Range Rover was the industry's highest scoring model.

Land Rover's 2014 model year line-up features five models: The 240-hp 2.0 liter powered LR2 and Range Rover Evoque; the LR4 powered by the supercharged 340-hp V6; the Range Rover Sport and Range Rover, both available with the 340-hp V6 and 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains.

Jaguar
For the month of September, the Jaguar XF was the Jaguar volume and growth leader with 632 units sold, up 47 percent from 429 sales in September 2012. Year to date, the XF is up 34 percent.

The Jaguar XJ sales were 442 units, up 5 percent from 422 in September, 2012. All-wheel drive models now make up approximately half of all XJ sales.

Year to date, Jaguar sales are 12,447, up 30 percent from 9,550 sales, with both XJ and XF sales increasing on the appeal of new powertrains and All Wheel Drive.

For MY14 the transformed Jaguar U.S. lineup includes:

• Instinctive All Wheel Drive™ - Available on both the XF and XJ
• Supercharged 340hp V6 engines in the XF and XJ
• Turbocharged 240hp four cylinder engine available in the XF
• Eight Speed ZF® Automatic Transmissions on all XF and XJ models
• Auto Engine Stop/Start on select XF and XJ models

The 2014 Jaguar line-up features four models: The Jaguar XJ luxury sedan, powered by a 340-hp supercharged V6 in rear wheel or all wheel drive configuration, a 470-hp supercharged V8 or a 550-hp supercharged V8 in the XJR model. The Jaguar XF sports sedan powered by a 240-hp turbocharged four cylinder, a 340-hp supercharged V6 in rear wheel or all wheel drive configurations, a 470-hp supercharged V8, a 510-hp Supercharged V8 in the XFR, and a 550-hp Supercharged V8 in the XFR-S. The XK coupe and convertible grand touring cars are powered by either a 385-hp V8 or a 510-hp supercharged V8 in the XKR. Jaguar also offers its highest performance models ever, the 2014 Jaguar XKR-S coupe and convertible with a 550-hp supercharged V8.  The 2014 MY Jaguar F-TYPE convertible comes in three variants, 340-hp F-TYPE, 380-hp F-TYPE S and 495-hp F-TYPE V8 S.

Land Rover announces 2014 range of cars.

The 2014 model year continues the most dynamic product development and introduction period in the brand's history. An all-new Range Rover Sport is introduced, based on the all-new aluminum-intensive Range Rover that debuted for 2013. The Range Rover itself sees a significant increase in fuel efficiency for 2014 with the introduction of a new supercharged 3-liter V6 engine, for up to EPA-estimated 23 mpg in highway driving1, replacing the naturally aspirated 5-liter V8.

The Range Rover Evoque debuts one of the first nine-speed automatic transmissions in a passenger vehicle. The sporty Range Rover Evoque, the smallest and lightest Range Rover model, has become its worldwide best seller, with more than 170,000 sold in its' first 18 months.

The Land Rover LR4 also replaces the 5-liter V8 with the 340hp supercharged V6, teamed to an 8-speed automatic. The Land Rover LR2, which received the 240hp turbocharged engine from the Range Rover Evoque for 2013, delivers pure Land Rover style in a compact model and adds infotainment upgrades for 2014.

2014 Land Rover LR4

U.S. Models and MSRP2:

LR4:                             $50,595

LR4 HSE:                      $55,495

LR4 HSE LUX:              $60,795

Land Rover has re-powered its luxurious all-purpose, all-terrain LR4 model for 2014 and also revised the model's exterior styling. A new 340hp 3-liter supercharged V6 engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission replace the previous 5-liter V8 and six-speed automatic, yielding comparable performance with better fuel economy. An Intelligent Stop-Start system also helps reduce fuel consumption in certain driving situations.

A new, lighter single-speed transfer case 4WD system is now standard for the LR4, with the two-speed transfer case 4WD system now part of an optional Heavy Duty Package that also equips the vehicle with an active locking rear differential and a full-size spare tire.

Available with three-row seating for seven adults, the 2014 Land Rover LR4 features a refreshed front end with a two-bar grille and redesigned bumper, headlamps, and fog lights. A striking new LED signature headlight design with xenon high-intensity discharge (HID) technology is standard on HSE and HSE LUX models. Inside the 2014 LR4, two great British brands come together, with new audio systems by Meridian™.

Renowned for its impeccable blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability, the LR4 uses integrated body-frame construction, featuring a steel unibody mounted on a rigid boxed full frame. Four-wheel independent, height-adjustable air suspension helps adapt the LR4 to varying terrain or weather. The innovative - and now, much imitated -- Terrain Response® system3 allows the driver to tailor the vehicle's capabilities to the prevailing road conditions.

New for 2014 LR4

• New 3-liter V6 supercharged gasoline engine with 340hp and 332 lb.-ft. torque replaces 5-liter naturally aspirated V8
• New 8-speed ZF® automatic transmission with CommandShift® and Sport mode; replaces 6-speed automatic
• New standard single speed transfer case 4WD system; two-speed transfer case 4WD system available as an option
• Intelligent Stop-Start improves fuel economy and reduces emissions
• Revised front styling with new bumper, headlamp, and fog light design
• Side-view mirrors with integrated turn signals also house available Blind Spot Monitoring
• Blind Spot Monitoring, Closing Vehicle Sensing and Reverse Traffic Detection systems have been added to the optional Vision Assist Package3
• New Meridian™ audio systems
• Standard rear camera with parking system3
• New wheel designs and exterior paint colors
• Extended Windsor Leather Package now standard on LR4 HSE LUX

2014 Land Rover LR2

U.S. Models and MSRP2:

LR2:                             $37,495

LR4 HSE:                      $39,995

LR4 HSE LUX:               $42,595

Following a model year that saw the Land Rover LR2 get a new powertrain, revised styling, upgraded interior and enhanced navigation system, the brand's high-capability entry model debuts a new, more versatile infotainment system and improved satellite radio.

The Land Rover LR2 compact luxury SUV offers the brand's renowned off-road capability in a vehicle that provides outstanding on-road ride comfort and agility. The combination of full-time intelligent four-wheel drive and the renowned Land Rover Terrain Response® control system3 give the LR2 the ability to take trails unsuitable for some luxury crossovers.

The 2-liter direct-injection turbocharged engine delivers 240hp and 250 lb.- ft. of torque, the latter at low engine speed, and is teamed to a six-speed automatic CommandShift® automatic transmission. The powertrain components and systems are protected from water intrusion, providing the vehicle with19.7-inches of water wading depth.

Standard amenities in the LR2 include grained leather seating with an eight-way power driver's seat and six-way power front passenger seat, along with a dual-panel panoramic sunroof and 380 watt Meridian™ Audio System with 11 speakers.

New for 2014 LR2

• Infotainment system gets more responsive capacitive touchscreen to replace resistive touch panel and features improved scrolling on main navigation screen (when equipped) and QWERTY keyboard for phonebook searching
• Satellite radio functionality improvements, including artist memory seek, team/game memory seek, instant replay, new virtual categories and SDARS audio services to browse channel by category

2014 Range Rover Evoque

U.S. Models and MSRP2:

Range Rover Evoque Five-Door

Pure:                            $41,995

Pure Plus:                     $44,995

Pure Premium:              $49,595

Prestige:                       $56,295

Dynamic:                      $57,195

Range Rover Evoque Coupe

Pure Plus:                     $45,040

Pure Premium:              $50,595

Dynamic:                      $58,195

The Range Rover Evoque, the best-selling Range Rover model worldwide, enters its 2014 with advanced new driveline technologies, new driver assistance features and detail design enhancements throughout.

For 2014, the 2-liter 240hp Turbocharged Direct Injected engine teams with a new ZF-9HP 9-speed automatic transmission, among the first fitted to a passenger car. With a wider spread of ratios than the 6-speed automatic it replaces, the new 9-speed enhances both performance and efficiency.

A new Active Driveline system with active differentials and torque vectoring also debuts on the 2014 Range Rover Evoque as standard in all models3. The new 4WD system reduces driveline drag by decoupling 4WD during steady-state driving at speeds above 22 mph, automatically activating 4WD drive within 300 milliseconds whenever it is needed. Active Torque Biasing uses an electronically controlled differential to distribute torque between the rear wheels, optimizing traction and stability. In addition, a Torque Vectoring feature further enhances agility and safety by redirecting torque among all four wheels to counteract understeer.

New driver-assist features include: Park Exit (to automatically exit parallel parking bays), Adaptive Cruise Control (with Queue Assist, Forward Alert and Intelligent Emergency Braking), and Closing Vehicle Sensing3.

The 2014 Range Rover Evoque also features exterior detail changes, new color options for the interior and new alloy wheel styles.

New for 2014 Range Rover Evoque

• New ZF-9HP 9-speed automatic transmission replaces 6-speed automatic; enhances performance and efficiency
• Standard Active Driveline system with active differentials, active torque basing and torque vectoring3
• Driver-assist features including Adaptive Cruise Control (with Queue Assist, Forward Alert and Intelligent Emergency Braking), Park Exit and Closing Vehicle Sensing3

2014 Range Rover Sport (All-New)

U.S. Models and MSRP2:

Range Rover Sport SE (V6):                              $63,495

Range Rover Sport HSE (V6):                            $68,495

Range Rover Sport Supercharged (V8):              $79,995

Range Rover Sport Autobiography (V8):             $93,295

The all-new second-generation Range Rover Sport is the fastest, most agile and responsive Land Rover vehicle ever. Based on the new Range Rover, the 2014 Range Rover Sport uses all-new aluminum unibody architecture to achieve a weight savings of approximately 800lbs. and features breakthrough suspension design and innovative dynamic chassis technologies. The new model delivers exceptional on-road dynamics with genuine Land Rover all-terrain capability.

The Range Rover Sport design captures the distinctive DNA of its predecessor, but with a bold evolution that places it at the heart of the three-model Range Rover portfolio, between the flagship Range Rover and the Range Rover Evoque vehicles. The impeccably luxurious interior offers the option of an occasional use third row for 5+2 seating.

A wheelbase that's longer by 7-inches provides greater room and improved access for rear passengers, while the trim 191-in. length is just 2.5-inches longer than the previous model. The Range Rover Sport is 5.9-inches shorter and 2.17-inches lower than the new-generation Range Rover and weighs about 100lbs. less when similarly equipped.

Two engines are offered, a new 340hp supercharged V6 or the formidable 510hp supercharged V8 on which the V6 is based. Both Range Rover Sport engines are paired with the advanced electronically controlled ZF® 8HP70 8-speed automatic transmission.

A next-generation four-corner air suspension with variable ride height and the Terrain Response® 2 system3 maximize the vehicle's versatility both on- and off-road. Supercharged V8 models are equipped with a dedicated Dynamic mode in the Terrain Response® 2 system, providing a more sporting bias.

The standard 4WD system features an all-new single-speed transfer case with a Torsen® differential is designed to provide a rear-wheel drive bias for optimum driving dynamics, while maintaining off-road performance capability. A two-speed transfer case system is available, with a low-range for the most demanding off-road conditions. The Range Rover Sport can tow up to 7,716lbs.

A slew of advanced driver-assist technologies include Adaptive Cruise Control with Queue Assist, Lane Blind Spot Monitoring, Departure Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition, Automatic High Beam Assist, Flank Guard to help alert the driver to potential side impacts Closing Vehicle Sensing and Reverse Traffic Detection3  (limited availability during first year or production).

Range Rover Sport: (All New for 2014)

• All-new high strength aluminum structure provides a weight savings of approximately 800lbs. over the previous generation model
• Improved agility and exceptional performance with improved fuel economy and reduced emissions
• Choice of 340hp supercharged V6 or a 510hp supercharged V8 engines; both teamed to
• 8-speed automatic transmission

• Choice of transfer cases - single speed Torsen or two-speed locking with low range
• Available new fully automatic Terrain Response® 2 system3
• Advanced electronic driver assistance technologies3
• Standard Intelligent Stop/Start technology to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions
• 5+2 third row seating option for occasional use
• Superbly crafted, luxurious interior

2014 Range Rover

U.S. Models and MSRP2:

Range Rover (V6)                                   $83,545

Range Rover HSE (V6):                           $88,545

Range Rover Supercharged (V8):           $99,995

Range Rover Autobiography (V8):          $135,995

The Range Rover was all new for 2013, debuting an aluminum unibody construction that reduced vehicle weight by 700lbs. for significantly improved strength, performance, agility and fuel efficiency.

For its second model year, the Range Rover makes another leap in fuel efficiency with a new 340hp 3-liter supercharged V6 engine replacing the previous 5-liter V8. As with the V8, the supercharged V6 is teamed to an 8-speed automatic transmission. The new powertrain yields comparable performance to the 2013 V8 model but with markedly better fuel economy, including 21-percent improvement in EPA city fuel economy and 15-percent improvement EPA-estimated highway fuel economy (now 23 mpg1).

An Intelligent Stop-Start system also helps reduce fuel consumption in certain driving situations.The new-generation Range Rover uses 4-wheel independent suspension with air springs at four wheels, featuring aluminum components and long wheel travel and articulation. Trailer towing capability remains at a substantial 7,716lbs. For safety, Intelligent Emergency Braking system can detect traffic ahead slowing suddenly, or another vehicle cutting in front, and apply braking if needed3.

The Dynamic Response active lean control system reduces body lean when cornering3. Paired with Adaptive Dynamics, which provides continuously variable suspension damping, the technology endows the Range Rover with an uncannily smooth ride3.  Acoustic-laminated windshield and side door glass help make the Range Rover exceptionally quiet.

Coupled with the versatile full-time 4WD system with dual-range transfer case, fully automatic Terrain Response® 2 analyzes road conditions and automatically selects the most effective vehicle settings for the 4WD, stability and traction control and other parameters3. The Range Rover offers a maximum water wading depth of 35.4-inches, a 7.8-inch increase over the previous-generation model3.

Legroom in the Range Rover rear seat extends to nearly 40-inches, a 4.7-inch increase over the older model. An Individualized Rear Seating package provides the ultimate in rear seat luxury, rivaling the world's finest luxury sedans.

The Range Rover exclusive offers high-end surround-sound audio systems from the renowned British audiophile brand, Meridian™.

New for 2014 Range Rover

• New 3-liter Supercharged V6 with Stop/Start replaces the normally aspirated 5-liter V8
• Option package and standalone options revised, with price reduced for Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Queue Assist and Intelligent Emergency Braking3
• 510hp Supercharged V8 adds Stop/Start
• New standard features for Autobiography include Stop/Start, Active Rear Locking Differential, and 29-speaker, 1,700-Watt Meridian™ Signature Audio System with 3D Surround Sound
• Mid-Year Technology Introduction for Range Rover and Range Rover Sport

Planned for a mid-year introduction, the Range Rover will offer Enhanced Parking Aids to bolster the already-available Parallel Park feature3. Parking Exit will be able to help the driver to automatically exit parallel parking spaces; Perpendicular Park can automatically position the vehicle centrally in parking spaces to maximize exiting room on both sides, 360-degree Park Distance Control will provide virtual object tracking along the sides of the vehicle at speeds of up to 10mph (16km/h) 3.

New optional Lane Departure will use a forward-looking camera to monitor the vehicle's position between lane markings3. The Lane Departure Warning system provides haptic feedback through the steering wheel should the driver begin to move out of lane without using a turn signal.  The same camera is used for the Traffic Sign Recognition system, which identifies speed limit signs and a variety of other warning and information signs3.

1 All figures are EPA estimates. Actual mileage may vary.

2 Price shown is MSRP. Includes $895 destination and delivery fee.  Excludes taxes, title, license, other local fees and optional equipment. Actual price set by retailer. See your local authorized Land Rover Retailer for details.

3 These systems are not a substitute for driving safely with due care and attention and will not function under all circumstances, speeds, weather and road conditions, etc. Driver should not assume that these systems will correct errors of judgment in driving.  Please consult the owner's manual or your local authorized Land Rover Retailer for more details.

273 graduates added to JLR intake makes almost 1000 over three years

JAGUAR LAND ROVER WELCOMES NEW 2013 GRADUATE INTAKE TAKING THE TOTAL NUMBER OF GRADUATES RECRUITED IN THE LAST THREE YEARS TO ALMOST 1000

• 273 new graduates begin their careers with Jaguar Land Rover – The UK’s Responsible Business of the Year
• New recruits takes the total number of graduates recruited in the last three years to almost 1,000
• Graduates receive inspirational address from Sir David Brailsford, Performance Director of British Cycling
• Jaguar Land Rover graduate programme is the highest ranked programme from an automotive manufacturer in the Times Top 100 List of Graduate Employers

Jaguar Land Rover has today underlined its commitment to developing the necessary skills needed to secure the future of the UK automotive industry with the recruitment of a further 273 graduates. The 2013 intake were joined on their first day with the company by 19 graduates recruited by Jaguar Land Rover’s National Sales Companies in South Africa, the USA, China, Australia and Europe. This latest tranche of graduates takes the total number recruited in the last three years to almost 1,000.

Recruited from many of the country’s leading academic institutions, the new graduates are joining at anexciting juncture in the company’s rich history. Today Jaguar Land Rover is the UK’s largest premium automotive manufacturer representing two of the most iconic British motoring marques that are reaching global consumers in more markets than ever before thanks to a truly engaging product line-up.

Dr. Ralf Speth, Jaguar Land Rover CEO said: "Jaguar Land Rover's drive towards excellence in research, design and innovation has seen us invest heavily in our business but our future success lies in our ability to deliver even more advanced and sustainable products.

"This can only be achieved through a continued commitment to the next generation of innovators who will lead the advancement of technologies required to shape the future of our company and the wider automotive industry."

In July, Jaguar Land Rover was named Responsible Business of the Year by Business in the Community for, amongst other things, its role in championing the agenda around the advancement of skills and development of young people. And as the highest ranking automotive manufacturer in The Times Top 100 Graduate Employers index, Jaguar Land Rover certainly has a proven track record in developing the future generation of engineers, buyers,marketeers and financiers needed to support its ambitious growth plans.

One such graduate is Cora Moffat who is about to begin her second year of the programme working in Chassis Development. She said: “During my first year on the graduate programme I have been able to use the engineering knowledge gained at university in a real business environment. From early on in the scheme I have been given a role with real responsibility and I can see how decisions I make influence the company.”

She continues: “I love the variation in my job role. No two days are the same and I am given the freedom to develop my skills in many areas with the support and encouragement of my colleagues. It has been a great year and I look forward to the next!”

During their first day with the company the graduates took part in an in-depth introductory programme where they met with members of the Jaguar Land Rover Board, familiarised themselves with the latest vehicle line up and had a glimpse at some of the products of the future. They also received an inspirational speech on teamwork, commitment and leadership from Performance Director of British Cycling and Team Principal of Team Sky, Sir David Brailsford.

Sir David Brailsford is credited as one of the principal architects in transforming Great Britain's track fortunes over the last decade. Under his leadership Team GB has become the most successful track cycling team in modern history with numerous victories at the Athens, Beijing and London Olympics.

Speaking to graduates, Sir David said: " You are about to embark on a new career with a company currently at the forefront of automotive design, technology and engineering excellence. Throughout my career in cycling, I have been at the cutting edge of human performance; understanding the need for a strong team that is fully committed and motivated to achieving the highest possible performance.

“This mind-set and approach that is so fundamental to our success at Team Sky is also highly relevant when it comes to Jaguar Land Rover graduates achieving the most and enjoying their future careers."

The Jaguar Land Rover graduate programme is designed to provide the perfect blend of personal and professional development, along with opportunities to network with other graduates and build relationships across the entire business. Graduates joining Jaguar Land Rover will be allocated a home department based on their specialism but will, over the course of the two year programme have an opportunity to gain experience in a number of functions from Product Development and Purchasing to Logistics and Finance.