Nissan to gradually stop selling diesel vehicles in Europe

Japanese automaker Nissan Motor will gradually quit selling diesel vehicles in Europe, in a further indication of weakening demand for those cars as customers fret over tax increase and looming bans and restrictions associated with diesel in many countries.

A Nissan spokeswoman stated there would be a gradual withdrawal of diesel cars in the continent. A source had previously informed Reuters earlier month that the automaker would cut hundreds of jobs at its Sunderland plant, Britain’s biggest automotive factory, because of the decreasing demand for diesel models in Europe.

The auto industry and its providers are dealing with a global regulatory crackdown on diesel emissions and are adjusting their businesses, as well as investing a lot in electric vehicles.

Volkswagen is currently emerging from a 2015 diesel emissions scandal that resulted in about $30 billion in expenses including fines.

“Along with other manufacturers and industry bodies we can see the progressive decline of diesel but we do not expect its sudden end in the short-term. At this point in time and for many consumers, modern diesel engines will remain in demand and continue to be available within Nissan’s powertrain offering,” the Nissan spokeswoman stated.

“In Europe, where our diesel sales are focused, our electrification push will permit us to discontinue diesel gradually from passenger cars at the time of each vehicle renewal,” she stated.

Data previously this month showed a sharp decrease in demand for diesel cars in Britain, which is Europe’s second-largest vehicle market.