Nissan in talks over Chery Wearside deal

Nissan is in talks to make another marque’s vehicles at its North East plant.

The firm has signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding with Chery International UK to investigate a Sunderland factory partnership.

Bosses say the move could see vehicles from Chinese-headquartered Chery - which include the Jaecoo and Omoda brands - made on Wearside in the 2027 financial year.

The talks come after Nissan revealed it was consolidating production lines at its North East base, which makes its Qashqai, Juke and all-electric Leaf models, to create a “leaner, more resilient business that adapts quickly to market changes”.

Any agreement would see Nissan’s 6000-staff Sunderland factory – which has made more than 11 million vehicles since 1986 – remain fully owned by the Japanese firm.

Massimiliano Messina, Nissan Africa, Middle East, India, Europe and Oceania chair, said: “This is an important step forward for our operations.

“We are looking forward to working with Chery in the coming months to finalise a position that is optimal for both companies.”

Nissan’s Sunderland factory, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, having begun operations with the Bluebird hatchback in September 1986, has made models including the Almera, Micra, Note and Primera, as well as cars under the Infiniti brand.

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