The head of Nissan says the Brexit trade deal has given them a “competitive advantage in the UK and abroad” and announces that the company will transfer production of its electric car batteries from Japan to Sunderland
- Ashwani Gupta, chief operating officer, said the deal would “redefine” the industry
- Speaking of Japan, Gupta said Nissan would continue to invest in Britain
- He said the company was constantly investing in preparing the UK to leave the EU
The Brexit trade deal has given Nissan a competitive edge, according to a senior official of the Japanese car giant.
Ashwani Gupta, the vehicle manufacturer’s chief operating officer, said he believed the last-minute deal would “redefine” the UK car industry.
“Brexit has brought short-term business continuity, protecting 75,000 jobs across Europe and most importantly: all of our models we manufacture at Sunderland,” it said in a news release.
Speaking from Japan, he said Nissan would continue to invest in the UK, noting that the company did not stop investing in preparing the UK to leave the EU.
The Brexit deal had ensured Nissan’s sustainability and improved the competitiveness of Sunderland’s giant factory, he said.
The Brexit trade deal has given Nissan a competitive edge, according to a senior official of the Japanese car giant. In the picture: The plant today
Ashwani Gupta (pictured), director general of operations for the vehicle manufacturer, said he believed the last-minute deal would “redefine” the UK car industry
“Sunderland is one of the top three plants in the world in competitiveness for Nissan,” he said. “Brexit gives us the competitive edge in the UK and abroad.”
Gupta also said Nissan would move production of used batteries to its Leaf electric cars in the UK to take advantage of trade rules that guarantee zero tariffs on EU exports if at least 55% of the car’s value is derived from the UK or of the EU.
The batteries are currently imported from Japan, but Gupta told the BBC: “We have decided to locate the manufacture of the 62 kW battery in Sunderland so that all our products meet the requirements (for duty-free export to the EU) “.
By the end of 2023, all Nissan cars sold in Europe will have an electrified version, he said, adding that it is up to customers to decide how quickly they go from gasoline and diesel engines.
Gupta added that Nissan’s message had been “consistent” in recent years, while Brexit caused so much uncertainty for businesses.
“As long as current trade conditions are maintained, we are sustainable, not just in Sunderland, but across Europe.”
Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng said: “Nissan’s decision represents a genuine belief in Britain and a huge vote of confidence in our economy thanks to the vital certainty that our trade agreement with the EU has given to the EU sector. the car.
“For the dedicated and highly skilled workforce at Sunderland, it means the city will be home to Nissan’s latest models over the next few years and will position the company to capitalize on the wealth of profits that will flow from electric vehicle production. as part of our green industrial revolution. ‘
Guy Opperman MP tweeted: “Massive news for the North East. # Nissan’s commitment demonstrates a genuine belief in Britain and a huge vote of confidence in our economy.”
Nissan said one of its two lines at its Sunderland plant will stop production on Friday as a result of European and global shipping routes and ports under pressure due to the coronavirus crisis.
This will affect the line produced by Qashqai and Leaf, which will be back in operation next week.
A company statement said: “Production of the first line at the plant has been halted due to the supply chain disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. We anticipate that production will resume on Monday. next week.
Steve Bush, Unite’s national automotive official, said: “Gupta’s support at Nissan’s plant in Sunderland is welcome and nothing less than this incredible dedicated workforce deserves.”
The Brexit deal had ensured Nissan’s sustainability and improved the competitiveness of Sunderland’s giant factory, the COO said. In the photo: the Sunderland factory
“Through continued economic and public health uncertainty, they have struggled to maintain this plant as one of the most productive in the automotive sector and place it in the best place to make the transition to the next generation of vehicles.
“This workforce and its community deserve a future and we will work with Nissan to achieve that, because rugged times await us.
Therefore, Unite is seeking an urgent meeting with the Government to discuss the role they should play in the total UK electrification needed to secure this and similar plants in the UK.
“Leaders in this country need to stop thinking in the short term and plan now for the changes that are coming to us quickly.”