In Sunderland, UK, the first Nissan Qashqai was produced nearly 18 years ago, creating the crossover segment. Now, in 2024, with over four million customers in 100 countries, the upgraded Qashqai, electrified with Nissan’s unique e-POWER system, is being produced in Sunderland. This follows a fresh £30m investment in the plant and aligns with Nissan’s EV36Zero vision for the future of automotive manufacturing, combining electric vehicle manufacturing and battery production powered by renewables.
Adam Pennick, Nissan’s Vice President for Manufacturing in the UK, said: “We’re so proud to call Sunderland plant the home of the Qashqai. Having the number one team behind the number one crossover is a winning formula, and we can’t wait to see how much our customers enjoy the new design and extra tech.”
The Qashqai, designed, engineered, and built in Britain, was first produced in Sunderland in 2006 and officially launched in 2007. It quickly became popular, leading to record production levels at the plant. The Sunderland Plant also produces the Nissan JUKE and the all-electric Nissan LEAF, supporting thousands of jobs. The 2024 Qashqai will introduce changes at the plant to accommodate new features and technology, aiming to provide customers with a seamless digital experience.
Pennick added: “These are exciting times for Nissan in Sunderland. We are proud to be delivering new versions of both Qashqai and Juke to our customers while also preparing our plant to go all electric, as part of our groundbreaking EV36Zero project.”
Nissan’s EV36Zero combines electric vehicle and battery manufacturing with renewable energy to achieve zero emissions driving and manufacturing. The project positions the Sunderland plant at the forefront of Nissan’s sustainable future, with plans to produce all-electric versions of Qashqai, JUKE, and LEAF by 2030, aligning with Nissan’s Ambition 2030 vision for a cleaner, safer, and more inclusive world.
Nissan GB has also announced pricing for the new model, which will start from £30,135 and is available with a mild hybrid petrol engine or Nissan’s unique e-POWER technology.
E-Power uses a pure electric motor with direct drive to the wheels to deliver instant, high torque and linear response. It offers drivers the sensation of driving an EV without having to think about charging – an ideal stepping-stone for customers who aren’t quite ready to make the switch to 100% EV yet.
All models feature significant interior and exterior design changes, including a bigger 12.3” infotainment screen and uplifts to interior materials quality. Google Automotive Services and upgraded Around View Monitor technology are also added to most models, together with enhanced exterior lighting and updated alloy wheel options.
The Qashqai line-up introduces the N-Design grade, starting from £34,845, featuring bold design upgrades and unique aesthetic touches. It is the first Nissan vehicle in Europe to have Google built-in, providing seamless interaction between a customer’s digital life and their vehicle. The vehicle is equipped with Google Maps and over the air updates for current map information. The Around View Monitor has been upgraded to include a 3D function and an “invisible hood view” to help drivers visualize the car and maneuver precisely in tight locations.
Diana Torres, managing director of Nissan GB, said: “The original Qashqai pioneered the crossover vehicle category that is so popular with customers today and, over the last 18 years, it has become a hugely successful icon of the UK motoring industry.
“Its unique combination of design, performance and technology ensure it stays ahead of rivals and these latest upgrades will reinforce its place as one of the nation’s favourite new cars to buy.”
- For more on the Nissan range you can visit the Nissan website, HERE
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