Vishay Intertechnology Supercharges UK EV Supply Chain with £250M Semiconductor Investment

In a bold move to solidify the UK’s standing in global semiconductor manufacturing, the government has pledged £250 million to turbocharge Wales’ chip-making capabilities—an investment that promises to reshape the landscape of electric vehicle (EV) technology and advanced industries.

Spearheading this transformation is Vishay Intertechnology, one of the world’s largest semiconductor manufacturers. Their focus? South Wales, notably Newport, is home to the UK’s largest semiconductor facility. This strategic investment is more than just financial backing—it’s a catalyst for innovation, positioning the region as a key player in next-generation technology production.

Announced during Chancellor Rachel Reeves' visit to Newport this morning, the initiative is expected to generate over 500 highly skilled jobs, with hundreds more cascading through the broader supply chain. This capital injection signals a new era of high-tech employment and economic revitalisation for a region already steeped in industrial prowess.

At the core of this investment is the production of Silicon Carbide (SiC) semiconductors—a game-changing component driving the future of electric vehicles. Unlike traditional silicon chips, SiC technology unlocks faster battery charging, enhances energy efficiency, and extends EV driving ranges. These breakthroughs are crucial for accelerating the shift toward zero-emission transportation, making this investment a win for Wales and the entire UK’s green transition.

This £250 million commitment isn’t just about boosting semiconductor output—it’s about securing the UK’s long-term economic and technological resilience. With applications spanning automotive, renewable energy, and defense, the move underscores a national strategy to reduce dependency on foreign chip supplies and establish the UK as a global semiconductor powerhouse.

As electric vehicles become the backbone of modern mobility, the demand for high-performance, energy-efficient chips is skyrocketing. This investment ensures that the UK remains at the forefront of innovation, fueling cleaner transportation, economic growth, technological leadership, and energy sustainability.

With momentum building, Wales is poised to become a cornerstone of the UK’s semiconductor revolution—one that will define the nation’s industrial future for decades.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves commented: “Under this government, the UK is open for business. This is exactly the type of investment that will help us grow the economy, create highly skilled jobs and boost opportunity for people across the country, as we deliver on our Plan for Change to get more money in working people’s pockets.”

Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: “This is a huge vote of confidence in the Welsh economy and our plans to make Britain the destination of choice for investments in the industries of tomorrow. It will support local skilled jobs and raise living standards, showing our Plan for Change is working. “Vishay’s investment will help secure a domestic supply of semiconductors which are vital for our world leading automotive sector and support our clean energy industries – key growth driving sectors identified in our upcoming Industrial Strategy.”