3:23 pm, February 23, 2009
OFFICIAL word from LDV confirms a management buyout is underway, led by Gaz chief Erik Eberhardson.
And, added the statement, this would create Europe’s first ‘green van company’.
This is because the Birmingham company will commit to beginning volume production of low carbon vans, including electric models, using green manufacturing techniques to do so.
It is hoped this pledge will secure financial support from the European Investment Bank. But, before any loans are processed, a bridging loan is required.
A desperate LDV is looking to the UK Governemnt to provide this.
Eberhardson said: ‘LDV can be a symbol of the low carbon, green manufacturing future that the government says it wants Britain to lead.’
It’s a matter of so close, yet so far, he said. ‘We are almost ready to go, but we need the Government to do its bit.
‘I am confident they understand the potential to secure this exciting green technology in Britain – and the need to move very quickly.
‘The Government has talked about backing ‘a green industrial revolution’ – this project is talk turned into action. LDV has been a successful company and, just last week, won a significant new order (for 500 vans, worth £11 million, to builder’s merchant Jewson).
‘Short term bridging support for this MBO from the government will secure its future and the future of hundreds of jobs.’
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