Car manufacturer Nissan to headline auto event

Car maker Nissan is set to headline a flagship transport sector event.

The Sunderland-based manufacturer will be among key speakers at the North East Automotive Expo 2026.

Organisers say the “major addition” of the Qashqai and Juke maker – which is celebrating 40 years in the North East – “reflects the strength of the region’s automotive cluster”.

Nissan’s presence at the event comes after the company revealed it had signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding with Chery International UK to investigate a Sunderland factory partnership.

The North East Automotive Expo 2026 will take place on September 24 at Sunderland’s Beacon of Light.

More than 100 exhibitors are set to attend, with a new grants clinic, in partnership with Clive Owen LLP, primed to provide support on areas including bid writing and grant applications.

Paul Butler, North East Automotive Alliance chief executive, said: “The event has become a key fixture of the automotive industry’s calendar, bringing together businesses from across the supply chain to share expertise, explore opportunities and build valuable connections. 

“Nissan’s participation is a significant addition to the programme, particularly as we recognise its 40-year presence in the region.”

Alan Johnson, Nissan senior vice president – manufacturing, added: “We’re delighted to be part of the North East Automotive Expo 2026.

“This event showcases the best of the region, and we’re excited to contribute to that story.”

Want your business, product or service to be seen regionally and nationally? Bdaily helps you get your story in front of the right audience, every day. Find out how Bdaily can help →

Join more than 55,000 subscribers by signing up to our daily bulletin each morning here.