Jaguar Land Rover has announced plans to create 1,300 new jobs at its Solihull site in the West Midlands.

This recruitment drive comes following confirmation at the Detroit Motor Show that the manufacturer will add a performance crossover called F-Pace to its model range, which is to be built at the Solihull plant and will go on sale in 2016.

Jaguar Land Rover chief executive Dr. Ralf Speth said: “Today’s announcements once again demonstrate our commitment to the UK and the advancement of a high-tech, high skilled, manufacturing-led economy. 

“Jaguar Land Rover is committed to delivering more great products. It is that innovation and relentless quest for new technologies that sets our products apart. We want to offer customers greater choice, with even more exciting vehicles, crafted with that special British flair. We want to improve the quality of life for our customers and for our own employees, creating opportunities for more people to be part of the Jaguar Land Rover experience.”

Applications for the new roles are now being accepted and following the brand’s commitment to enhancing employment opportunities for former service personnel in the wake of the Invictus Games, Jaguar Land Rover is welcoming applications from military personnel who are leaving or have left the services.

Today, the plant builds world-renowned vehicles such as the Range Rover, Range Rover Sport, Land Rover Discovery and is home to the iconic Defender. Most recently, the site has welcomed the first Jaguar in its history, with the introduction of the new Jaguar XE, which begins production in the Spring.