A CAR parts maker has started work on its largest-ever project in a £12m-a-year deal with a luxury marque.

ElringKlinger (GB) is making heat shield and gasket components for Jaguar Land Rover.

The company says the parts will be used in engine bay and vehicle assembly applications for six differing power units.

Confirmation of work starting represents another significant moment in the recent history of the Redcar-based business, which announced back in 2015 that it would design and make such products for a new Jaguar Land Rover engine plant in Wolverhampton.

It also comes just days after managing director Ian Malcolm, who has revealed a five-year plan to double the size of the company, unveiled proposals to take on another 30 staff and modernise tool store and materials storage facilities.

Mr Malcolm said the company was chosen by Jaguar Land Rover after years of working together proved to the manufacturer that Elring- Klinger was more than capable of meeting the demands of its new factory, which is capable of making more than 1,000 engines every day.

He said: “We have worked with Jaguar Land Rover for a number of years and have a strong relationship.

“Implementation of this programme has been running for more than three years, which is typical for a new product introduction, so it’s great to see the contract coming into fruition as the first components come off the production line.

“This project is the biggest ElringKlinger (GB) has ever handled and over the past three years we have been working very closely with Jaguar Land Rover behind the scenes to prepare for the start of production and install a dedicated team of more than 12 to manage the contract.

“There has been significant investment in the plant to help us implement highly-innovative technical solutions and maintain our competitive edge.

“Our employees are also constantly given the relevant training to ensure that we can meet the stringent demands of the automotive industry.

“Our sales pipeline is strong for the future and we are confident of further success.”

The Echo previously revealed how the firm, which employs more than 300 staff, had secured a £19.5m deal to supply Ford with complex gaskets, beating US and European rivals in the process, with Mr Malcolm reiterating his plans to drive fresh growth.

He added: “We are very proud of our team; the bulk of the people here are local.

“We are putting something back.

“As our staff numbers continue to rise, growth over the next five years is forecast to double the size of the business.”