Major automotive group with strong South Tyneside links welcomes Nissan’s second gen electric car plans
The group said Nissan's investment highlighted the region's world-class manufacturing, electrification capability, innovation and skills excellence.
A major automotive group with a strong South Tyneside membership has welcomed Nissan’s decision to build a second generation electric car at its Sunderland factory.
The North East Automotive Alliance (NEAA) described the move – along with a required £170m investment in production facilities – as “superb” and a significant boost to the north east.
Last week, Nissan announced its Kicks model, a hybrid electric vehicle currently built in Japan, Mexico and Brazil, would also be constructed on Wearside.
The firm confirmed the vehicle will be made alongside its Qashqai, Juke and Leaf models.
Although the move will not create new jobs or change shift patterns, bosses said it would help safeguard existing employment.
The NEAA, which also has a South Tyneside-based chairman, said Nissan’s investment highlighted the region’s world-class manufacturing, electrification capability, innovation and skills excellence.
It insisted the region is already home to one of Europe's most productive automotive ecosystems.
This includes globally recognised vehicle manufacturing, battery production and an extensive supply chain supporting thousands of highly skilled jobs.
“It’s a superb way to celebrate 40 years of Nissan in Sunderland.”
Chief Executive Paul Butler said: “The North East has established itself as one of the premier automotive manufacturing locations in Europe.
“Our combination of manufacturing expertise, electrification capability, strong supply chains, collaborative networks and skilled workforce, makes the region an attractive destination for international investment.
“Nissan’s announcement to allocate a new model to the Sunderland plant affirms this and is a major boost for Nissan, its employees, the supply chain and ultimately the region.
“It’s a superb way to celebrate 40 years of Nissan in Sunderland.
“Few, if any, foreign direct investments in the UK can match the scale, impact and long-term commitment that Nissan has demonstrated over four decades.”
Mr Butler added: “Collaboration is key and we will continue to work closely with industry and public sector partners to continue to ensure the region remains investment-ready through continued focus on skills, innovation, infrastructure and supply chain development.”
The NEAA said the north east had attracted more than £3.3bn of vehicle electrification investment since 2021 and is recognised as a national leader in electric vehicle and advanced manufacturing technologies.
Nissan has not confirmed when production of its Kicks vehicle would begin.