September continues car manufacturing growth

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders has hailed September’s 7.4 per cent growth in vehicle manufacturing as showing that a positive trend is developing in the sector in the UK. Car manufacturing rose by 7.5 per cent in the month, making the first three-quarters of 2011 up 4.8 per cent over 2010’s. Commercial vehicle output rose by 6.2 per cent in September, but is still down 2.7 per cent over the January-September period.

“September saw a 7.4% increase in UK vehicle manufacturing, confirming a positive trend we expect to continue into 2012,” said Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive. “Major new investment by vehicle manufacturers is opening up opportunities for UK-based suppliers, helping to drive the economic recovery and private sector investment.”