UK Q1 car production up

"Car production held firm in March contributing to 12.3 per cent growth during the first quarter of 2012. Challenging economic conditions in mainland Europe are a concern, but the sector continues to win business in important and faster growing export markets,'' said Paul Everitt, SMMT Chief Executive. "The prospects for the UK motor industry are extremely good with new investment, commitment and jobs being created by global automotive companies.''

Figures show that 135,456 cars were produced in March, up 0.3 per cent on March 2011. The 12.3 per cent rise in the year to date production equates to 401,134 cars.

The outlook was not so positive for the commercial vehicle sector, with 9,648 vehicles produced in March – a fall of 21.3 per cent. The YTD figure of 29,086 vehicles was down 9.6 per cent.