Nissan will soon be producing a new compact car in Sunderland.

Nissan has announced that it is to build a new compact car at its Sunderland, UK plant when the production of its Micra ends in 2010.

It is hoped that this announcement will reinforce Sunderland’s role as a manufacturer and exporter of high-end goods, and will build on the success of Nissan’s latest car, the 4×4 Qashqai.

Nissan is the largest vehicle exporter in the UK, selling around 80% of its goods abroad. British Prime Minister Gordon Brown commented on what the announcement will mean to the UK. He said: “Today’s announcement…is another important boost to our manufacturing industry, and builds upon Nissan’s recent commitments to increase investment and jobs at its record-breaking Sunderland plant.

“Sunderland’s success shows what an innovative, talented and highly committed workforce can achieve, and reaffirms the UK’s position as a strong player in the global car industry.”

Last year, Nissan’s Sunderland plant, comprising 4,700 employees, produced 374,000 vehicles – a record number for the company.