UK CAR PRODUCTION INCREASES FOR SIX CONSECUTIVE MONTHS REFLECTING STRONG DEMAND

Car making has been increasing for six months in a row, highlighting a strong demand both here in the UK and abroad, according to recent data.

Close to 80,000 cars were manufactured last month, marking a spike of 14% compared to the previous year and the best February since 2021, reported by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Production aimed at the UK market saw a jump of 58%, whilst three-fourths of the cars made in February were sent abroad.

The European Union received most of these overseas vehicles (59.9%), followed by the US (14.8%), China (7.1%), Australia (3.3%) and then Turkey (2.3%). Electric vehicle manufacturing accounted for more than a third of the entire car output in that period.

Mike Hawes, chief executive at SMMT said: "Another month of growth for UK car production is welcome news, reflecting strong demand at home and around the world for the latest British-built cars. The industry is transitioning from internal combustion engine cars to electrified vehicles, building on the massive investment commitments made last year.

“The UK industry faces stiff competition, however, as global competitors seek to secure new models and technologies so a commitment to our industrial competitiveness, from all political parties in this likely election year, must be maintained.”

This year, UK car production has increased 17.8% with 162,904 units, the most promising start since 2021. However, the SMMT has warned that as big car makers announce the end of production for some older models to make way for new electric versions, the number of cars being made might change a lot in the coming months.

2024-03-28T09:50:39Z dg43tfdfdgfd