Nissan has announced details of its new Leaf electric vehicle, slated for production at its UK facility.
The Sunderland plant, employing 6,000, will manufacture this third-generation model, the Japanese automaker confirmed.
Boasting a range of up to 375 miles (604km) on a single charge, the new Leaf will be available for customer orders later this year.
Power will be supplied by batteries from AESC UK, Nissan’s battery partner, located adjacent to the Wearside factory.
The plant also currently produces the Juke and Qashqai models.
Alan Johnson, Nissan Motor Manufacturing’s senior vice president of manufacturing and supply chain management, stated: “We unveil the third generation of our pioneering electric Leaf with immense pride, twelve years after introducing EV and battery manufacturing to the UK.”
“Our world-class team’s skill is evident in the mass production of this vehicle, showcasing advanced technology and aerodynamic design.”
James Taylor, managing director of Nissan GB, added: “Leaf, a pioneering electric vehicle, has encouraged thousands to embrace electric motoring—and it’s proudly built in Britain.”
This launch marks the first model under Nissan’s EV36Zero project, a blueprint for sustainable electric vehicle production.
Earlier this year, a £1bn investment secured funding for a second AESC UK electric car battery plant.
Additional reporting by PA Media
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