The East Midlands automotive industry is a key driver of advanced manufacturing in the UK, supported by a strong supply chain, skilled workforce and strategic infrastructure. At the centre of this growth is East Midlands Freeport, a major economic hub designed to attract investment, accelerate innovation and support the expansion of automotive and advanced manufacturing businesses across the region. With a unique combination of tax incentives, simplified customs processes and access to world-class logistics networks including East Midlands Airport, the Freeport creates an ideal environment for automotive companies looking to manufacture, distribute and scale their operations. By reducing costs, encouraging research and development, and improving global connectivity, the East Midlands Freeport is helping to strengthen the region’s position as one of the UK’s leading centres for automotive manufacturing and future mobility technologies.
Toyota Motor Manufacturing UK is one of the largest and most forward-thinking automotive businesses in the world, and its UK manufacturing home is right here in the East Midlands, adjacent to the East Midlands Intermodal Park tax site within East Midlands Freeport.
Toyota has been producing vehicles at its Burnaston site in Derbyshire for 30 years, with its super-efficient and market-leading Corolla hatchback and Touring Sports hybrid cars rolling off production lines.
More than 3,000 people work at Burnaston, which is responsible for stamping, welding, painting, plastic mouldings, and final vehicle assembly. The site is one of Toyota’s principal European production centres and has produced more than five million vehicles since it opened in 1992 and is helping shape the future of the East Midalnds Automotive sector.
Toyota Motor Manufacturing UK not only plays a vital role in the automotive industry but also exemplifies innovation and excellence in manufacturing within the region and beyond.