UK car manufacturing rises: SMMT

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders has released its annual report; 2011 figures show that the UK’s car manufacturing sector rose 5.8 per cent on 2010’s full year. Meanwhile commercial vehicle manufacturing fell by 1.4 per cent to 121,312 in 2011. In December figures, car output rose 1.6 per cent, which CV figures were down 2.7 per cent. UK engine production rose by 4.9 per cent to 2,504,054 in 2011, despite a 1.3 per cent decline in December.

“UK vehicle and engine production continues to lead the manufacturing recovery with increased output and exports taking a record-breaking share,” said Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive. “In 2011, vehicle manufacturers renewed their commitment to the UK securing new model programmes, facilities and jobs for the long term. It is essential that industry and government continue to work in partnership to maximise the opportunities at all levels of the UK supply chain and encourage more investment in R&D, skills and new plant and machinery.”

Exports accounted for 81.6 per cent and 70.2 per cent of the total output of vehicles and engines respectively. While UK exports of cars and engines experienced gains of 17 per cent and 14 per cent respectively, commercial vehicle exports dropped 18.9 per cent.