As part of a thorough £2 billion overhaul, Nissan's Sunderland facility in the UK is preparing for the manufacturing of the next-generation Leaf EV, scheduled to begin in March 2025. Despite progress on the new EV, an impending "real challenge" looms over operations at the Sunderland plant.

Nissan LEAF EV to Enter Production Soon

Following the discontinuation of the renowned LEAF EV earlier this year, Nissan is readying its Sunderland facility for a fresh chapter in electric mobility. Initial production tests are scheduled to commence in August, paving the way for the inaugural units to be released in 2025.

According to Autocar, the LEAF is set to be manufactured alongside the Juke and Qashqai, alongside their electric successors, in the upcoming years. Initial production tests are scheduled to begin in August and last for six months.

Assuming a successful trial period, the assembly line should be prepared to commence production of the first LEAF models as early as March of the following year, suggesting a potential unveiling towards the conclusion of 2024.

Additionally, the report underscored Nissan's substantial investment in the future of the Sunderland plant, where production has recently commenced on the updated Nissan Qashqai. However, the dedication to maintaining car manufacturing operations in the UK is not without challenges, as noted by regional manufacturing executive Alan Johnson.

Carbuzz has provided the recent information on this development. Nissan has maintained a low profile concerning the upcoming LEAF iteration, with indications pointing towards a mid-2025 debut as a refreshed compact crossover. Sources indicate that the Chill-Out concept, unveiled in 2021, offers a glimpse into the design direction of the forthcoming LEAF model.

READ MORE: BYD Seagull EV Below $21,500 Price Tag: Defines Luxury Within Reach in European Market

Challenges Ahead for Nissan LEAF EV

The development of new competitors has affected sales momentum of the LEAF. Despite of its global sales surpassed 650,000 units. Nissan has produced more than 280,000 LEAF cars at the Sunderland factory in the United Kingdom since it began operations there in 2013. Electrek reported these details.

As highlighted by Johnson, Nissan's commitment is not devoid of challenges. In a recent interview with Autocar, Johnson expressed that the endeavor presents a significant hurdle, mentioning that while producing EVs in the UK is feasible, it requires perfect alignment of various factors for success.

In discussing the competitive landscape against other nations, observations reveal several obstacles faced by the UK. Johnson highlighted issues such as the absence of robust policies and challenges in establishing a local supply chain. The main obstacle revolves around energy expenses.

There are occasions where costs are twice as high as those in mainland Europe, this situation markedly impacts profit margins. Reports indicate that the upcoming model will lean towards a crossover coupe style with a full revamp. Despite this, it will retain its smaller and sportier characteristics compared to the Qashqai and Juke.

The new model will feature a redesign and offer a 25% increase in range to make it more competitive, Nissan said in a separate update to dealers. One compared to Nissan's electric SUV, the Ariya, while another dubbed it a "mini Ariya."

RELATED ARTICLE: Nissan Supports Dealers to Sell New Cars Below 15% Invoice Cost, Targeting Inventory Shift

Copyright @ MOTORTIMES, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.