DI
PARIS -Japanese carmaker Nissan will gradually halt diesel car sales in Europe as a further sign of weak demand for the cars as customers worry about tax hikes and looming restrictions and diesel-related restrictions in many countries.
A Nissan spokesman said there would be a gradual withdrawal of diesel cars in Europe. A previous source told Reuters last month that Nissan will cut hundreds of jobs at its Sunderland plant, Britain’s biggest automaker, due to falling demand for diesel models in Europe.
The automotive industry and its suppliers face a tough crackdown on global diesel emissions and adjust their business, including massive investments in electric vehicles.
German car manufacturer Volkswagen is also still in the process of completion of the 2015 fraud emission scandal that resulted in fines and other costs of around US $ 30 billion.
“Along with other manufacturers and industrial bodies, we can see the progressive decline of diesel fuel but we did not make a sudden termination in the short term. At this point in time and for many customers, modern diesel engines will remain in demand and continue to be available in Nissan’s powertrain offering, “said a Nissan spokesman.
“In Europe, where our diesel sales are concentrated, our electrification drive will allow us to stop diesel gradually from passenger cars at the time of each vehicle update,” he added.
Data earlier this month showed a sharp drop in demand for diesel cars in the UK, which is Europe’s second largest auto market. Nissan has a partnership with the French car group Renault.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings