The senior executive leading Nissan's massive Sunderland plant has described recent Government interventions for the automotive industry as a "fantastic start", while stressing the urgent need to translate strategy into concrete action.
Collaboration Key to EV Transition
Speaking at an event to mark the start of production for the new, third-generation Nissan Leaf at the Wearside facility, Adam Pennick, Vice President of Manufacturing at Nissan UK, responded to comments from Business and Trade Minister Chris McDonald. Mr Pennick emphasised that maintaining the UK's competitive edge requires a collaborative effort between the Japanese carmaker and the Government.
"The path towards EV was always going to be a challenge," stated Pennick. "We certainly welcome the measures that have been put forward, including the investment and the EV grant - which is really, really what we needed for ourselves and our supply chain, and for the customers."
From Strategy to "Real Action"
Pennick specifically addressed the Government's Industrial Strategy, highlighting the critical work that lies ahead. "That's where we've got to continue the collaboration - turning the Industrial Strategy from what it is into action, real action," he asserted. "That's for ourselves and the full automotive industry."
He noted that regular dialogue takes place through bodies like the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) and the Automotive Council, where all major carmakers (OEMs) work with the Government to align on the sector's future direction.
Minister Outlines Support Package
Minister Chris McDonald, the MP for Stockton North and former CEO of the Materials Processing Institute, addressed senior Nissan executives at the plant. He framed the automotive sector as a barometer for the health of the entire UK economy and detailed several support initiatives.
"My priority as Minister for Industry is to maximise the UK's productive capacity, increase manufacturing output and contribute to our balance of trade," said McDonald. He revealed a significant boost from Motability UK, which plans to increase UK-built vehicle orders to 50% by 2035, starting with an immediate extra 20,000 units next year.
Further measures highlighted by the Minister included:
- A new trade agreement with South Korea.
- A dedicated fund for automotive businesses in the North East.
- A consultation on the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme, aiming for a 25% reduction in electricity costs for manufacturers by 2027.
"We'll do even more over the coming weeks and months," McDonald pledged, "because what is good for Nissan and for Sunderland, is good for the North East of England and for the whole of Britain."
The show of mutual support comes as Nissan pushes forward with its multi-million-pound investment in the new Leaf, despite facing global financial pressures that have led to restructuring elsewhere in its business.
