Envision AESC’s Wearside battery plant powers on with Womble Bond Dickinson support

A 1000-job vehicle battery factory venture has accelerated forward thanks to law firm support.

Womble Bond Dickinson has advised Envision AESC on its new Sunderland plant.

Officials say the base – set for the International Advanced Manufacturing Park – will make more than 100,000 batteries every year.

It will form part of a previously-announced £1 billion partnership with Wearside-based Nissan that will help deliver the EV36Zero project, which the latter says will drive forward greener motoring and see a new all-electric ‘crossover’ model made in the region.

Construction began in late December, with battery production earmarked to start in 2024.

Partner Vicky McCombe, from the firm’s construction and engineering practice, led Womble Bond Dickinson’s team advising Envision.

She said: “This is a hugely significant development for the region.

“Our expertise advising clients in the manufacturing sector, coupled with our strong commercial credentials and understanding of our client, meant we were able to secure the best possible outcome and a smooth completion for Envision AESC.”

Derek Benfield, Envision AESC UK vice president for manufacturing and supply chain operations, added: “The beginning of construction on our new factory is a sign of our ongoing commitment to Sunderland.

“Womble Bond Dickinson has played an integral role in making this project happen, and we are extremely grateful to Vicky and the team for their expertise and commitment.”