Overview
The last decade has seen unprecedented change and turmoil. Fluctuating fuel prices, environmental regulations, the introduction of electric and autonomous vehicles and changes in government policy have prompted automakers to make significant changes to the systems that propel, connect and distribute their vehicles.
To remain competitive on the global stage, you need to find new ways to manage your supply chains, replenish your inventories, improve fuel efficiency using new technology, outsource production methods and work within new company structures.
Leading lawyers
Gowling WLG is at the forefront of this exhilarating industry, matching our sector depth with the international reach of our clients. We offer you leading technical excellence and a dedicated cross-firm team of lawyers who are passionate about all things automotive. Like you, we're used to challenging conventional thinking and offering innovative alternatives.
Because we're part of your landscape, you'll be working with preeminent lawyers with niche experience. Our automotive industry group brings together technical excellence in regulatory, corporate, employment, dispute resolution, privacy and intellectual property, real estate, M&A, restructuring, commercial and competition. Whether completing disposals and acquisitions or resolving disputes, we head off issues before they affect your bottom line.
Global service
Our client base is global and we represent participants at all levels in the industry, including major multinational OEMs, tier-one and tier-two component manufacturers, specialist manufacturers, financing companies, retailers, part suppliers and other organisations in the automotive supply chain. A number of global brands, such as the likes of Mazda, Prodrive, Peugeot, Aston Martin, SMMT and GKN - work closely with us and together we have built a strong, long-term relationship.
The team plays a significant role in the driverless vehicle consortium UK Autodrive, the aim of which is to establish the UK as a global hub for the development of autonomous vehicle technologies and to integrate driverless vehicles into urban environments.
Examples of our work
- Advised Cummins on the acquisition of Johnson Matthey's UK automotive battery systems business, a subsidiary of Johnson Matthey that specializes in high-voltage automotive grade battery systems for electric and hybrid vehicles.
- Counsel to Magna on the acquisition of Stadco Automotive Ltd
- Representing Ford Motor Company on the sale of the Formula 1 team that became Red Bull Racing
- Counsel to a number of companies for autonomous and semi-autonomous systems in both airborne and/or ground based vehicles
- Advising Jaguar Land Rover on the development of its £500 million UK advance engine manufacturing facility
- Counsel to General Motors (Vauxhall) on the sale of one of its largest urban brownfield sites
- Advising brands such as Audi, FCA, Jeep, Seat, Skoda, Volkswagen and Volvo on advertising
- Counsel to Mitsubishi Heavy Industries on various intellectual property matters
Looking out for you
We've built a law firm to cover just about all of the needs that arise in this complex and evolving market. We scan the horizon for developments relevant to the industry and stay close to the major influencers.
All of our advice is delivered through the lens of our deep background and understanding of the themes influencing industry participants at all levels. When disputes arise, the industry's biggest players call upon our team.
Find out more
Lawyers who lead and drive success: we're your ideal partner in an exciting new world. To find out how we can help you do business, please get in touch with any member of our team.
