China puts confidence in UK automotive base

The Longbridge factory, which was closed after the collapse of MG Rover, will begin production of up to four new models, according to the Chinese owners Nanjing.

It is expected that 500 limited edition MGTF sports cars will be the first off the production line, with standard models of the MGTF and new versions then being manufactured.

The Longbridge site itself has an exciting long-term future as a leading centre of innovation and research

Jerry Blackett

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Chief executive

Nanjing, which purchased the MG Rover assets, also revealed that a new research and development facility would be established to help design the new models.

Jerry Blackett, Birmingham Chamber of Commerce chief executive, said: "The Longbridge site itself has an exciting long-term future as a leading centre of innovation and research, clustered around the very best of our manufacturing potential.

Pre-production at the factory has already seen hundreds of workers employed, and 57 car dealers have signed up to receive the plant's products.

Last month, the Birmingham Post reported that Nanjing president Chen Hong visited the plant to tell workers that plans were on track to start production of the sports car.