"During this period the majority of plant employees will be furloughed," the company said, referring to a government scheme covering 80% of wage costs for staff placed on temporary leave, up to 2,500 pounds ($3,100) a month per employee.

Nissan's sites in Spain are also suspended until further notice, the Japanese carmaker said.

"Our goal is to navigate through this crisis while maintaining activities critical for business continuity and to make sure we are prepared for the time when business resumes in Europe."

(Reporting by Costas Pitas, editing by Estelle Shirbon)