The automotive cluster, anchored by Nissan, already employs more than 12,900 people (2019) in the NEMCA area, including at the International Advanced Manufacturing Park, which is located on the boundary between Sunderland and South Tyneside. The AESC battery gigafactory is currently under construction on the International Advanced Manufacturing Park and is expected to employ over 1,000 people when operational in 2025, and Nissan announced further Electric Vehicle investment in its Sunderland plant in November 2023 with associated supply chain opportunities. The International Advanced Manufacturing Strategic Site also includes part of Hillthorn Business Park.
