Fortescue Boosts UK Operations, Announces Cutting-Edge Facility in Oxfordshire

Fortescue is set to significantly enhance its UK-based operations in battery and electric powertrain manufacturing by opening an additional cutting-edge facility in Oxfordshire, resulting in the creation of over 120 new employment opportunities.

This development is a strategic move from Fortescue to amplify its UK presence, following the recent incorporation of WAE (formerly known as Williams Advanced Engineering) into its corporate portfolio.

Facilitated by the newly enforced Australia-UK Free Trade Agreement, Fortescue is set to launch its new facility in Banbury, Oxfordshire, marking a considerable amplification in its UK manufacturing prowess. This expansion aims to supply state-of-the-art batteries and electric powertrains across the globe.

The focus of the new site will be on producing a comprehensive array of zero-emission products targeting the off-road industry, including trucks and trains. It is designed to be a cornerstone of a novel global business that champions decarbonisation across all economic sectors, while concurrently enhancing sovereign capabilities in emerging technologies. The new factory, with a footprint exceeding 13,500 square meters, will employ over 120 personnel comprising engineers, technicians, apprentices, and graduates. Recruitment for the industrialization program is set to commence immediately, with potential candidates being directed to visit the WAE careers page.

Dr. Andrew Forrest, Chairman of Fortescue, expressed his enthusiasm by saying, Fortescue’s investment sets British engineering at the forefront of the green energy economy, with WAE’s battery systems delivering industry-leading technology to the entire global industrial sector. We are delighted to host the UK’s trade secretary at our Oxfordshire factory today, affirming the message of British technological superiority and our enticing work environment.

The newly announced Banbury facility will function in tandem with Fortescue’s existing Oxfordshire sites, including the Kidlington factory scheduled to open later this year. The Banbury site is planned as a purpose-built facility with a central focus on manufacturing heavy industry electric/zero-emission powertrain systems. It will offer automated assembly for battery modules and packs, power conversion and power systems assembly, and support for truck and train production.

The Banbury site targets to build its first prototype in July/August 2023, with the inaugural mining haul truck module set for completion in August 2023.

With an official opening set for 2024, the facility will provide a wealth of job opportunities across all levels, including apprenticeships and graduate positions. This acts as a testament to WAE’s future ambition to roll out additional global high-tech manufacturing hubs.