SMMT figures: UK car manufacturing rises, CV down

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders has revealed that car manufacturing rose 1.3 per cent in July and is up 3.7 per cent over the first seven months of 2011. Commercial vehicle output has not been able to match the upwards creep of car manufacturing, with a decline of 5.9 per cent in July, down 5.1 per cent over the January-July period. UK engine production is stable, dipping just 0.4 per cent in July and up 4.0 per cent for the year-to-date. Vehicle production in the UK is less fragile than much of the UK economy thanks to strong exports.

“Economic growth remains fragile but thanks to a strong export market, automotive manufacturing continues to outperform the broader economy,” said SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt. “SMMT expects vehicle and engine production to continue to rise fuelled by demand in the fast growing BRIC economies, as well as mainland Europe and the US. The UK industry is globally recognised for its high quality, innovative design and exceptional reliability.”