£1 Billion EV Battery Plant Coming to Sunderland
The UK government has secured a £1 billion investment for a new electric vehicle (EV) battery plant in Sunderland - a major boost for green manufacturing and the country’s net-zero goals.
The plant is expected to create 1,000 high-skilled jobs and produce enough batteries to power 100,000 EVs annually.
AESC UK is the battery manufacturing partner of Nissan. This expansion by AESC strengthens Sunderland’s role as a leading EV hub, complementing Nissan’s existing production of models like the Leaf and reinforcing the region’s growing reputation in green technology and advanced manufacturing.
As the UK increases investment in its EV supply chain, this new facility is set to play a key role in shaping the future of the automotive industry, whilst driving economic growth in the North East.
Volkswagen previews £17k entry-level electric car
Volkswagen has announced plans for a new fully electric city car, expected to launch in two years with a starting price of around £17,000. Likely to be called the ID.1, the model will debut as a show car in March.
Unveiled during a works meeting in Wolfsburg, VW says the car will appeal to a wide range of users. CEO Thomas Schäfer described it as “an affordable, high-quality and profitable electric Volkswagen from Europe for Europe.”
The ID.1 is part of Volkswagen’s broader EV strategy, with nine new electric models planned by 2027, including the upcoming ID.2.
Royal Mail hits 7,000 electric vehicles, becoming the UK's largest EV fleet operator
Royal Mail has reached a major milestone with the delivery of its 7,000th electric vehicle, solidifying its position as the UK’s largest EV fleet operator. The company plans to add 1,800 more electric vans over the next year. Since purchasing its first 100 EVs in 2017, Royal Mail has steadily expanded its electric fleet, which now powers daily deliveries at about a quarter of its delivery centres. As part of its ‘Steps to Zero’ strategy, the company aims to cut emissions by 50% by 2030 and achieve net-zero by 2040. Chief Operating Officer Alistair Cochrane highlighted the milestone as a key step in their commitment to sustainability, benefiting postal workers, customers, and the environment.
