Toyota increases U.K. manufacturing to satisfy GR Corolla demand
Toyota Expands GR Corolla Production in the UK
Toyota is set to expand its production of the GR Corolla at its Burnaston plant in Derbyshire, UK, starting in 2026. This move comes in response to the growing popularity of the Gazoo Racing (GR) models, particularly the GR Corolla, and the need to meet global demand[1][4][5].
The Burnaston facility will produce around 10,000 GR Corolla units per year, marking a significant expansion of Toyota's sporty GR lineup production outside Japan[4][5]. This investment is part of Toyota's broader "Multi-Path Solution" approach, emphasizing sustainability and advanced powertrain technologies[1].
The GR Corolla is the fastest-expanding model within the Toyota group and is well-received in North America[6]. The UK production facilitates direct supply to Europe, reducing import constraints and allowing growth of the GR brand in this region[1][4].
The Burnaston plant, which began operations in 1992, already produces the Corolla hatchback[7]. To ensure the production of the GR Corolla meets the highest standards, engineers will be temporarily dispatched from Japan to share their expertise[8]. Currently, production of the GR Corolla at the Japanese plant accounts for about 8,000 of about 25,000 cars made there each year[9].
Toyota Motor Europe President and CEO, Yoshihiro Nakata, expressed appreciation for the UK's historical support and stated Toyota's intention to continue contributing to UK society as a "Best in Town" company[10]. The first GR Corolla vehicle produced at the UK plant is scheduled for 2026, and the company is investing about $56 million on a dedicated line at the plant to expand production capacity[11].
The GR road car brand is known for its high-performance internal-combustion-engine vehicles, and the Gazoo Racing program has earned a loyal following from race fans[12]. The U.K.'s 10% tariff on vehicle imports negotiated with the U.S. is expected to help keep the price of the GR Corolla down to meet growing demand from American consumers[13].
This move by Toyota is a testament to the UK's rich heritage in developing racing and sports cars, and the country's specialist supply chains are likely factors in the decision[14]. The expansion of the GR Corolla production at Toyota Motor Manufacturing UK is expected to support the UK's economy and contribute to its automotive industry.
References:
- Toyota expands GR Corolla production to UK
- Toyota to build GR Corolla in the UK
- GR Corolla to be built in the UK
- Toyota to produce GR Corolla in the UK
- Toyota to build GR Corolla in the UK from 2026
- GR Corolla is the fastest-expanding model within the Toyota group
- Burnaston plant already produces the Corolla hatchback
- Engineers will be temporarily dispatched from Japan
- Production of the GR Corolla at the Japanese plant accounts for about 8,000 of about 25,000 cars made there each year
- Yoshihiro Nakata, president and CEO of Toyota Motor Europe, expressed appreciation for the U.K.'s historical support
- Toyota is investing about $56 million on a dedicated line at its U.K. plant in Burnaston
- The GR road car brand is known for its high-performance internal-combustion-engine vehicles
- The U.K.'s 10% tariff on vehicle imports negotiated with the U.S. is expected to help keep the price of the GR Corolla down
- The expansion of the GR Corolla production at Toyota Motor Manufacturing UK is a testament to the UK's rich heritage in developing racing and sports cars
- The expansion of GR Corolla production to the UK will contribute to Toyota's automotive industry, leveraging the country's specialized supply chains.
- Additionally, the increase in GR Corolla production in the UK will help cater to finance and transportation needs, given the demand for high-performance internal-combustion-engine vehicles in both the European and global industry.
