Cyber attack causes UK car production crisis
British car production fell to a 70-year low after hackers shut down Jaguar Land Rover factories for over a month. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders reported total vehicle output dropped 35.9 percent in September to 54,319 units. The attack began on Aug. 31 and forced JLR to close plants in Solihull and Halewood, sending thousands of workers home.
The breach may cost Britain nearly 2 billion pounds and appears to be the country’s most expensive cyber incident. Analysts predict JLR could lose 50,000 vehicles and see revenues decline 18 percent to 24 billion pounds this year. The company expects to resume full production in January 2026.
UK car manufacturing has decreased 15.2 percent this year to 582,250 units. Mike Hawes of SMMT said the government should preserve tax benefits that help businesses provide vehicles to employees. Industry leaders want stronger cybersecurity measures as factories adopt digital systems.
