Nissan and partners plan to invest £2 billion in the UK to build three new electric car models at the Sunderland factory.
The electric Qashqai, Juke, and the next-generation Leaf will be produced, potentially saving 6,000 jobs. A new gigafactory for batteries is also in the works.
The investment includes £1.12 billion for facility preparation, supply chain, and workforce training. The government is expected to support the plan. This move secures jobs and the site’s future, but more support for the car industry is urged.
Nissan’s decision contrasts concerns about the UK’s competitiveness due to high costs. The government has provided funding through the Automotive Transformation Fund.
The company’s Brexit concerns and the need for a trade deal are also highlighted.
The government’s recent announcement of an “investment zone” for North East England, creating over 4,000 jobs, aligns with Nissan’s plan. The impact of Brexit tariffs on car exports is emphasized, with Nissan exporting 80% of its vehicles.
Other car manufacturers have expressed similar concerns. The article concludes by mentioning the challenges faced by battery firms in the UK compared to the EU and the government’s delay in the ban on new petrol and diesel cars until 2035.
Nissan reaffirms its commitment to manufacturing electric vehicles by 2030 despite the delay.(Source: BBC)
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