Inside major car brand's new ‘iconic' hatchback EV to be built at huge UK factory – as firm raises £5bn to stay afloat

The Irish Sun

05-06-2025

A STRUGGLING car brand has released details of its new electric crossover ahead of a full reveal later this month.
Built at a huge factory in Sunderland, the Nissan Leaf is set to join the market later this year.
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The third-generation Nissan Leaf is set to launch later this year
Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk
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Its sleek, higher-riding design emphasises aerodynamics and range
Credit: Nissan
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The car features an electrochromic dimming panoramic roof
Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk
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The Nissan Leaf has sold 700,000 models since its 2010 debut
Credit: Getty
Now in its third-generation, the electric crossover is scheduled to
The launch comes amid the company's
As other manufacturers are slowing production on EVs, Nissan's Sunderland factory is focusing more on these eco-friendly alternatives.
The company has reduced its production from 17 to 10 factories, with an announcement that 20,000 jobs will be lost.
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Its newest model has been announced as part of this focus on EVs.
Global product strategy boss Richard Candler
He said: "Leaf is an icon for us. It's one of our core 'heartbeat' models."
First launched in 2010, the Leaf was one of the first
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Nissan has sold 700,000 Leafs since 2010, covering over 28 billion kilometres.
Richard added: "We have really substantial, real-world insight about the customer - understanding how their needs have evolved from the early days of Leaf until now."
The company has substantially changed this version's shape and positioning, learning from their
This results in more aerodynamic efficiency, helping to achieve a longer range.
While not being officially announced until the debut later this month, its estimated maximum range is 372 miles.
The new design reflects a wider market shift away from traditional hatchbacks towards higher-riding cars.
Japanese giant unveils its new bargain EV with quirky 'bug eye' headlights
It means that the Nissan Leaf could rival cars like the
While few details have been announced so far, European product boss François Bailly said they were emphasising "real-world range."
This means they have prioritised
Global design boss Alfonso Albaisa added: "It's very modern, simple and nice.
"We wanted something tailored, handsome, well-proportioned, with a super-tech interior that feels open and cool."
It will include features like an electrochromic dimming panoramic roof with heat shielding, creating more headspace by removing the need for physical blinds.
Its in-car systems are equipped with their updated Car and Connected Service platform, using a Google-based infotainment system and advanced driver assistance systems to "make your life easier."
The new model is launching amidst the company's
Over the last few weeks, Nissan has
To save on costs, they plan on closing down seven of their factories, with its only UK based factory focusing more on electric cars.
During this turbulent period, production on some models has stalled.
The company may need to sell its
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Nissan is facing significant ongoing financial issues
Credit: Getty