- Nissan stays committed to emobility in Europe by 2030 despite the UK’s petrol and diesel car sales ban delay.
- This highlights EVs’ role in net zero, with plans for numerous electric and hybrid models.
- Nissan’s battery tech investment sets an industry example for a rapid shift toward sustainable mobility.
Nissan ignores UK’s decarbonisation delays and strives for net zero by 2030
Nissan intends to continue its electrification plans despite the recent postponement of the UK’s ban on petrol and diesel car sales until 2035. The Japanese automaker has declared that by the end of this decade, all new models launched in Europe will be exclusively electric.
This resolute stand by Nissan comes on the heels of UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s decision to push back several pivotal net-zero proposals. Namely, the eagerly anticipated 2030 ban on new internal combustion engine vehicle sales. The delay has triggered criticism from industry pundits and sustainability specialists, so Nissan’s dedication to emobility resonates as a potent message.
The global shift toward electrification is undeniable. Governments and automakers alike grapple with the pressing need to curtail carbon emissions. By adhering steadfastly to their “Ambition 2030” vision, Nissan underscores the pivotal role that EVs, energized by renewable sources, play in attaining net zero.
Makoto Uchida, Nissan’s President and Chief Executive, encapsulated this determination:
“There is no turning back now. EVs powered by renewables are key to us achieving carbon neutrality, which is central to our Ambition 2030 vision. Nissan will make the switch to full electric by 2030 in Europe – we believe it is the right thing to do for our business, our customers, and for the planet.”
Nissan’s declaration isn’t mere rhetoric; it is backed by a tangible action plan. Their strategy includes introducing 19 fully electric models and eight hybrids before the 2030 deadline.
The company has made huge investments in the UK. Their EV36Zero plant in Sunderland provides over 6,000 jobs and supports the nation’s net zero ambitions. Nissan’s £1 billion investment in this plant has facilitated the production of all-new EVs in the UK.
Furthermore, Nissan is making substantial investments in the development of “cobalt-free” technology. These developments could drastically reduce EV battery costs by a remarkable 65%. Simultaneously, they are committed to advancing faster-charging batteries. They intend to unveil a new battery in 2028 that could reduce charging times by a third.
As a longstanding player in the UK’s automotive landscape, Nissan’s dedication to this electrifying journey is profound. They are injecting £35 million into enhancing the Nissan Design Europe building in London, reinforcing their commitment to innovation and technological progress.
This resolute move by Nissan serves as an inspiring example for other automakers to emulate. It underscores the significance of staying the course, regardless of regulatory shifts, and aligning corporate strategies with the imperative of addressing climate change. Nissan’s commitment to net zero sends a compelling message: the future is electric, and there’s no point delaying it.
