What's the news?
Infiniti has announced that its forthcoming Q30 model will be built in Europe; specifically in Sunderland.
The existing Nissan facility is currently the largest automotive production plant in UK history, but Infiniti intends to move it even further forward with a £250 million investment. This influx of cash will allow the factory to house both the body assembly and final assembly stages in the Q30's production. The 25,000 square metre extension will also include a new engine installation facility, and is scheduled for completion by the time the Q30 goes on sale in 2015.
"This is a significant step for the Infiniti brand as we establish manufacturing here," comments Vice President for Infiniti Europe, Middle East and Africa, Fintan Knight. "The design centre in Paddington, the Technical Centre in Cranfield and the on-going partnership with the Infiniti Red Bull Racing team in Milton Keynes testify to our strong link with the UK."
The investment isn't just good news for Infiniti either, as the company estimates it will create up to 1,000 jobs across the brand's UK facilities and its suppliers. The plant itself is said to house 280 of these opportunities.
Anything else?
The executive compact Infiniti Q30 is scheduled to hit European markets in 2015. More information regarding this new model will be released over the coming months.
James Giddings - 15 Oct 2013