Nissan halts electric Qashqai development at UK plant

Nissan has halted development of a fully electric version of its best-selling Qashqai crossover, a significant reversal of its European electrification strategy. The project, which was to be manufactured at the company's Sunderland plant in the United Kingdom, was quietly stopped in early 2025, according to multiple sources familiar with the matter.

The decision comes as the Japanese automaker undertakes a major global restructuring aimed at restoring profitability and reducing costs. Nissan has cited volatile consumer demand for electric vehicles in Europe and intense competition from lower-cost Chinese rivals as key factors influencing its reassessment. The company is streamlining its global lineup, planning to reduce the number of models from 56 to 45.

In a statement, Nissan did not directly address the status of the electric Qashqai but said it remains committed to expanding its "electrified" offerings, which include hybrid models. The company noted the European market has experienced significant volatility in EV demand and that it is now pursuing a "balanced" electrification strategy. If development were to restart, sources indicate the vehicle would not reach the market...