SUNDERLAND, UK: Japanese automaker Nissan has announced a substantial investment of up to £1.12 billion to manufacture electric versions of its popular Juke and Qashqai models in Sunderland, northeast England.
Sunderland hosts Nissan’s largest factory in Europe, employing around 6,000 people. This strategic move is set to support thousands of jobs and marks a significant step in Nissan’s commitment to electric vehicle (EV) production.
The substantial investment will be allocated to the UK operations and the broader supply chain, covering research and development (R&D) and manufacturing for the newly announced electric models. The development is expected to generate additional investments in infrastructure projects, including the establishment of a new electric car battery factory. The cumulative impact of these investments could potentially exceed £2 billion.
Nissan’s decision aligns with the global shift toward sustainable transportation and carbon neutrality. The electric versions of the Juke and Qashqai models are positioned to play a crucial role in Nissan’s commitment to environmental responsibility. The move also reflects the growing demand for electric vehicles across the automotive industry.
Nissan President and CEO Makoto Uchida emphasized the company’s focus on “exciting, electric vehicles” and stated that this investment marks a pivotal moment for Nissan, the automotive industry, and customers. The announcement positions Nissan to be at the forefront of innovation in electric vehicle technology.
The development comes at a time when the UK aims to play a leading role in electric vehicle production, aligning with the global trend of transitioning away from fossil-fuel vehicles. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak hailed Nissan’s investment as a “massive vote of confidence” in the UK’s automotive industry, emphasizing its significant economic contribution. Sunak believes that this venture will solidify Sunderland’s status as the “UK’s Silicon Valley for electric vehicle innovation and manufacturing.”
As the automotive landscape undergoes a profound transformation toward sustainability, Nissan’s substantial investment in electric vehicle production in Sunderland underscores the industry’s commitment to embracing a greener and more environmentally conscious future. The move is poised to enhance the UK’s position as a hub for cutting-edge electric vehicle technology and manufacturing.
