Nissan has confirmed it plans to invest £13bn in its electric vehicles over the next 10 years, with its Sunderland-based operation to lead the way.
Ashwani Gupta, chief operating officer, said in a news conference said, “Europe will take the lead on electrification around the world for Nissan” with the Sunderland factory to “take the lead towards electrification.”
Gupta added that “Sunderland is the leader, in collaboration with the Government, suppliers, dealers and most importantly, our employees."
The car manufacturer hopes to introduce 23 new electrified models by 2030, aiming for an electrification mix of more than 50% globally.
As well as expanding its vehicle range, the investment will also go towards continuing its development of lithium-ion batteries.
Makota Uchida, Nissan’s chief executive said he believes the investment will allow the car maker to “drive the new age of electrification, advance technologies to reduce carbon footprint and pursue new business opportunities. “
More than 3,000 employees are expected to be taken on in advanced research and development globally, with a portion of these jobs expected to be in the Northeast.