Nissan begins production of new LEAF in Sunderland

Nissan has begun production of the next generation LEAF in Sunderland - making it the first new high volume electric car to be produced in the UK since 2020. 

Nissan has invested more than £450 million into manufacturing the new LEAF at their Wearside plant - including over £300 million directly into the firm’s UK operations.

Industry Minister Chris McDonald will attend the launch in Sunderland on 16 December.

Industry Minister Chris McDonald said: "We’re proud of our historic car industry, so I’m delighted that Nissan is producing the new LEAF in Sunderland. This will strengthen the UK’s position as a global leader for manufacturing and as the destination of choice for investment. 

The government plans to cluster EV manufacturing across growth areas as part of its Industrial Strategy. Along with the introduction of the new LEAF, the government is announcing the launch of two new regional EV supply chain pilots in partnership with the North East and West Midlands Metro Mayors.  

These programmes, implemented under DRIVE35, will strategically boost growth, enhance UK supply chain resilience and increase domestic production in the transition to zero emission technologies. 

Just over the road from the plant, AESC has opened a new 12 GWh gigafactory which will supply batteries for Nissan, showcasing the power of investment in boosting the supply chain through new jobs and opportunities in the region.  

Adam Pennick, Vice President, Manufacturing, at Nissan Sunderland Plant said: "Nissan has invested into our state-of-the-art plant to build the EVs of the future and there is huge pride and excitement in our team to be building this brilliant car in Sunderland. 

"The skills, expertise and team-work of our people have powered Sunderland’s success, and the transformation of our plant for new LEAF demonstrates our leadership in the journey to electrification."