NISSAN’S CITY GIFT
Nissan has presented a unique gift to Sunderland as a thank you for its workforce being honoured with the Freedom of the City.
The entire 7,000-strong staff at the Sunderland Nissan plant was given the honour in September 2017 to recognise the tremendous role it plays in the city.
Now Nissan Motor Manufacturing UK (NMUK) has presented the city with a unique first generation halfLEAF cross-section car to Sunderland City Council as symbol of its gratitude.
Councillor Harry Trueman, leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “We’re delighted to accept this fasner cinating half-LEAF crosssection model. It reflects the innovation, investment and phenomenal success that hallmarks the Nissan NMUK Sunderland plant.
“Skills development is a priority for Nissan and for us, and this fascinating halfLEAF is a great way to help inspire pupils to become future engineers, and increase understanding of current students at our university.
“We hope that when it moves to the museum as many people as possible see for themselves the in- workings of a pioneering car. It shows that in 2018, the city with a proud history of innovation continues to produce ground-breaking technology.”
The fully working halfLEAF cross-section model reveals the innovative technology of the world’s first and best-selling 100% zero emissions electric car, which is produced at the Nissan Sunderland plant.
The council plans to eventually display the car in the Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens alongside the first Nissan Bluebird off the production line (Job 1), already on display.
“Half-LEAF is a great way to help inspire pupils”
HARRY TRUEMAN