by Production Resumption After Cyberattack
More than four weeks after a devastating cyberattack, JLR has announced its readiness to gradually resume operations at its three UK plants. Production capacity will begin returning to normal in the coming days.
Key Situation Points
Company’s Official Position
In its statement, JLR reported:
Today we are informing colleagues, dealers, and suppliers that specific sections of our production will resume work in the coming days. We continue to work around the clock with cybersecurity experts, the government’s cybersecurity center, and law enforcement agencies to ensure a safe and secure resumption of operations.
Government Support
The UK government, concerned about the potential bankruptcy of 700 JLR suppliers, has provided loan guarantees of $2 billion. These funds are intended to support the supply chain and must be repaid within five years.
Economic Consequences
Under normal conditions, JLR produced about 1,000 vehicles per day, but since September 1st, production has completely ceased. The company’s daily losses are estimated at nearly $10 million. The crisis has affected not only production but also the dealer network – representatives had to revert to paper documentation for the first time in decades.
Recovery Plans
JLR has two plants in the West Midlands and a third in Merseyside. According to BBC reports, the engine plant in Wolverhampton will be the first to resume, but full production recovery across all sites may take weeks.
Impact on Brands
The production shutdown affected only Land Rover models, as Jaguar has discontinued older models for the transition to the premium segment and the launch of new electric vehicles, showcased by the 00 coupe concept this year.
Broader Context of Cyberattacks
JLR is not the only British brand facing cyberattacks. Late last week, an attack occurred on the famous London department store Harrods. The same group previously attacked British retailer M&S, causing hundreds of millions of dollars in damages.
This situation with JLR demonstrates how critical the dependence of automakers on digital systems has become. The prolonged shutdown affected not only the company itself but also hundreds of related businesses, requiring unprecedented government intervention. Similar incidents may lead to a review of cybersecurity approaches in the automotive industry and will force companies to invest in developing backup production management systems.
