Nissan has started production of its latest electric car, the third-generation Leaf, at its Sunderland plant. The move represents a significant investment of over £450 million, with more than £300 million directed into the company's UK operations.
The Sunderland factory, Britain's largest car plant, employs 6,000 workers and has a theoretical annual capacity of 600,000 vehicles. However, it produced only 284,000 cars in 2024 amid a challenging period for European manufacturers. Nissan has built 282,704 Leaf models at the site since the model's launch.
Sales of the new Leaf are crucial for securing future production at the plant. In 2023, Nissan considered building two additional electric cars in Sunderland, seen as replacements for the petrol Qashqai and Juke, but a final investment decision has not been made. The outcome will also affect the nearby AESC battery factory, majority-owned by a Chinese company.
The investment comes as Nissan undergoes a global restructuring, shutting seven factories and cutting 20,000 jobs worldwide. However, Sunderland will not be affected by these closures. Industry minister Chris McDonald visited the factory on Tuesday, and business secretary Peter Kyle called the investment "a major commitment to the north-east and a huge vote of confidence in our economy."
The new Leaf qualifies for the full £3,750 UK electric car grant and offers a range of up to 386 miles per charge with a 75 kilowatt-hour battery. Nissan's vice-president for manufacturing at the plant, Adam Pennick, said: "There is huge pride and excitement in our team to be building this brilliant car in Sunderland."
