Land Rover increases production

Land Rover is increasing production at its Solihull factory.

Forecasts of strong demand for updated Land Rover Discovery and Range Rover Sport models mean that workers will revert back to their previous working hours, after working reduced shifts since the spring.

The Discovery and Range Rover Sport have a range of cosmetic and mechanical upgrades for the 2010 model year, including fresh styling throughout and new engines.

Temporary shutdowns will take place, however, at Land Rover's factory in Halewood, Merseyside, which produces the Freelander.

Up to 300 jobs could be lost at Halewood, when production of the Jaguar X-type ceases later this year. Jaguar Land Rover has said the losses will be through voluntary redundancies.