The founding signatories, representing a fifth of the sector's manufacturing workforce, are pledging a collective, public commitment to create a diverse, equitable and inclusive workforce that is reflective of wider society.
By signing the charter, companies publicly recognise that creating a diverse and inclusive workforce is not only ethically responsible but good for business, and to take action with the aim of accelerating progress across all aspects of DE&I within their own companies.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive and chair of the Automotive Council UK Competitiveness and Business Environment Group, said: "This charter is a pivotal moment for the automotive industry – a collective pledge to drive positive change, drive out inequality, and demonstrate progress. UK Automotive is undergoing an immense transformation and our future success depends on attracting the best and brightest talent, irrespective of backgrounds, races, genders, cultures or abilities. A rich diversity of skills, perspectives and experience can give us a competitive advantage and I encourage the sector to support this important ambition."
Other signatories are: Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC); Aurrigo; Bentley Motors; BMW Group; Cummins UK; Honda Motor Europe; Lotus; McLaren; Nissan; Robert Bosch; Stellantis; TMD Friction UK; Toyota; Unite; and Volkswagen Group UK.