Nissan Leaf to be produced in UK

18 March 2010

Nissan is planning to build its new electric car in Sunderland, which is claims will be the world's first affordable mass-produced zero emission car.

The Japanese manufacturer announced that it will start production of the latest model in 2013, creating more than 550 jobs at the north-east plant.

As many as 50,000 cars have been expected to be manufactured in Sunderland in a year, forming part of a £420 million investment in electric cars by Nissan.

Meanwhile, a £20.7 million Government grant and a proposed finance package from the European Investment Bank of up to 220 million euros (£197.3 million) will also support the investment.

Business Secretary Lord Mandelson, who welcomed the announcement, said: "This investment is a fantastic vote of confidence in the Sunderland plant and its excellent workforce."

Sunderland has been seen as the favourite for European production of the Leaf since it was announced that Nissan's electric car battery plant would be sited next to the existing one.

The firm has also announced production of the all-electric Leaf hatchback in Japan and the United States.

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