Ellesmere Port Plant produces 100,000th Astra Sports Tourer
The 100,000th Astra Sports Tourer left the production line at Vauxhall’s Ellesmere Port Plant in Cheshire (UK) today.
Vauxhall’s 2,100 people strong manufacturing operation at Ellesmere Port is the only plant to produce the ST and cars are being exported from here to the whole of Europe and to countries such as Chile, Israel and South Africa.
Since its launch end of September 2010, the sleek but roomy Astra Sports Tourer has proven to be extremely successful in the UK and abroad. Within 9 months, 6,316 Vauxhall Sports Tourers were sold in the UK where, in the 1st half of 2011, the Sports Tourer was by far the 1st in its competitive segment overall. In the same period, 29,622 Sports Tourers were sold in Germany – historically a strong estate market and also the largest market for the Sports Tourer – and in total about 92.5% of Sports Tourers built were bound for export.
Apart from excellent quality and efficiency records – currently 47 jobs per hour are being achieved – the plant also prides itself of a very competitive environmental footprint. It was the first automotive manufacturing operation to receive ISO14001 certification (then BS 7750) in 1995, it has received numerous environmental awards such as the EON Energy Award and the National Green Apple award and it also achieved landfill free status.
The plant started production in 1962 and has since seen all variations of Astra models leaving its production line.
Today, the 100,000th Astra Sports Tourer was driven off the line by Ellesmere Port’s longest serving employee, John Cooper, in the presence of local dignitaries and guests of honour and many of Vauxhall’s employees who had been instrumental in the success of the Sports Tourer.
Since starting at the plant in 1967, John, who is also a valued union official, has worked as a production operator on various stations and starting up the engine of such a significant milestone was not without emotions: “I am extremely proud and honoured to be chosen to accompany our 100 000th Sports Tourer as it leaves our plant and presents itself to the world,” says John. “It is a great car with a confident and elegant ride and great looks. I am looking forward to sending many more to future Vauxhall customers and customers all over the world.”
Tony Francavilla, the plant’s Director says: “My particular thanks go to all employees who, like John, perpetuate the plant’s success story year after year building world class cars, paving its way into the future.”
