Nissan to produce ultra-low carbon concept vehicle at Sunderland plant
Wed 07 March 2012
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Nissan has announced plans to manufacture its new 'ultra-low' carbon concept car, the Invitation, at its UK plant in Sunderland. The car will begin production in 2013, creating 2000 new jobs in the factory and supply chain.
Nissan claims that although the Invitation will run on petrol, a combination of advanced engine technology, lightweight design and an aerodynamically efficient body will mean “class-leading levels of fuel efficiency and emissions.”
The auto manufacturer is aiming for an ultra-low CO2 emission target of under 100 grams per km for the best performing model. All other versions of the car will be labelled with Nissan's 'Pure Drive' badge, which identifies Nissan vehicles that consume less fuel, are more efficient and emit less C02 emissions. Initial production is estimated at 100,000 a year.
Nissan will invest £125million in the operation, backed by a £9.3m investment grant offer from the Government’s Regional Growth Fund.
Trevor Mann, Nissan Senior Vice President for Manufacturing in Europe, said: "I’m delighted that Sunderland has secured what will be another very important model for Nissan in Europe. It is a testament to the workforce, the on-going support from the UK Government and all of our regional partners and suppliers." The Business Secretary Vince Cable commented "It is fantastic news that Nissan will be building the new model in Sunderland. The investment is a boost for jobs at Nissan’s plant as well as the wider supply chain.
The Invitation will be manufactured alongside Nissan’s LEAF, the first mass-produced electric car to be made in the UK. The LEAF will also go into production at Nissan’s Sunderland plant in 2013 making Sunderland the UK'S the largest car plant.
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