Nissan and Gateshead College to launch low-carbon vehicle centre

Date: 26/3/2012

A Zero Emission Centre of Excellence is to be built by Nissan and Gateshead College.

Located in the north-east, it will be used to develop new technology, with initial research focusing on battery second life and the charging infrastructure.

The site will be used as a home for the quick charger technology developed by Nissan, which allows certain vehicles to charge up to 80 per cent in 30 minutes.

It is also hoped the move will create jobs in the region, as the manufacturer and Gateshead College have already worked on staff training development at Nissan's Sunderland Plant.

Principal of Gateshead College Richard Thorold said: "This is a significant day for both partners and more significantly the low carbon vehicle sector of not just north-east England but the whole of Europe."

Washington and Sunderland West MP Sharon Hodgson added that the development will help the area in its bid to become a "hub for green technology," the Sunderland Echo reported.

Posted by Nick Anderson