Nissan has announced a £170 million investment in its Sunderland plant to manufacture a new hybrid SUV model, the Nissan Kicks. This marks the European debut for the Kicks, which is currently produced in Japan, Mexico, and Brazil, and has sold over 1.8 million units globally across 70 markets. The decision comes after a period of uncertainty for the plant, which has seen job losses and production line closures, but the Sunderland factory is recognized as one of Nissan's best-performing sites.
The Kicks e-POWER hybrid will be the tenth model built at the Sunderland plant, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary and has produced over 12 million vehicles since 1986. Adam Pennick, Vice President of Manufacturing at Nissan's Sunderland plant, expressed pride in welcoming the new model, emphasizing its role in the plant's electrified lineup alongside the Qashqai, Juke, and LEAF. Massimiliano Messina, Chairperson for Nissan in the Africa, Middle East, India, Europe, and Oceania region, highlighted the Kicks' unique e-POWER hybrid drivetrain and innovative technology, aligning with European customer demand for electrification options.
Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, a native of Sunderland, welcomed the announcement, viewing it as a significant vote of confidence in the UK's manufacturing expertise and automotive future. The Sunderland plant is the UK’s largest single car manufacturing facility, supporting approximately 6,000 direct jobs and thousands more in its supply chain. This investment contributes to Nissan's total investment in the UK exceeding £6 billion, reinforcing the UK's position as a major automotive and export hub. This specific £170 million investment is separate from previous larger investments by Nissan in the UK for electric vehicle production, such as the £2 billion plan announced in November 2023 for electric Qashqai and Juke models, and the next-generation LEAF.
