Dyson scraps plans for electric car

Sir James Dyson has announced a project to build electric cars has been scrapped.
James Dyson - chairman and founder of Dyson LtdJames Dyson - chairman and founder of Dyson Ltd
James Dyson - chairman and founder of Dyson Ltd

The inventor, best known for his vacuum cleaners, said engineers had developed a "fantastic electric car", but it was not commercially viable.

In an email to workers, Sir James said the company had unsuccessfully tried to find a buyer for the project, launched in 2017.

Read More
Scotland Workplace Parking Levy: what is the new workplace parking tax and how m...
Designer and company founder James DysonDesigner and company founder James Dyson
Designer and company founder James Dyson
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

He said: "The Dyson Automotive team has developed a fantastic car. They have been ingenious in their approach while remaining faithful to our philosophies.

"However, though we have tried very hard throughout the development process, we simply can no longer see a way to make it commercially viable.

"We have been through a serious process to find a buyer for the project which has, unfortunately, been unsuccessful so far.

"I wanted you to hear directly from me that the Dyson Board has therefore taken the very difficult decision to propose the closure of our automotive project."

There were enough vacancies to absorb most of the employees into Dyson's business, he said.

"For those who cannot, or do not wish to, find alternative roles, we will support them fairly and with the respect deserved," Sir James said.

"This is a challenging time for our colleagues and I appreciate your understanding and sensitivity as we consult with those who are affected.

"Dyson will continue its £2.5 billion investment programme into new technology and grow the Dyson Institute of Engineering and Technology."

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Sites including Malmesbury in Wiltshire, and Singapore will be expanded and the company will concentrate on the "formidable task" of manufacturing solid state batteries and other technologies.

Sir James said: "In summary, our investment appetite is undiminished and we will continue to deepen our roots in both the UK and Singapore."

Around 520 people were in the Dyson Automotive team, mainly based in the UK.

Development was taking place at Dyson's Hullavington campus in Wiltshire although the company has not publicised a prototype.

Related topics: