CV production dips as car manufacture grows nearly 4% in 2011
Car manufacturing was up by 1.3% last month, marking an overall improvement of 3.7% since the start of the year.
Figures released by the SMMT also that production of commercial vehicles experienced a slump of nearly 6%, mirroring the first dip in van sales in 17 months.
SMMT Chief Executive Paul Everitt reckons export markets will aid the growth of the vehicle manufacturing industry.
He said: “Economic growth remains fragile but thanks to a strong export market, automotive manufacturing continues to outperform the broader economy.
“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.”
Over 98,000 cars were produced in the UK during July, taking this year’s running total to 760,946.
More than 70,000 commercial vehicles have been manufactured in the first seven months of 2011, 9,127 of which appeared last month.
Award
The SMMT will stop taking entries for this year’s Award for Automotive Innovation next week.
The award recognises innovation in automotive manufacturing, design and engineering and has attracted striking contenders in the shape of automotive SMEs, hybrid commercial vehicles, innovative hydrogen fuel storage devices, and articulated lorry stabilisers.
Determined by a panel of industry figures, the winner will be announced at the SMMT’s 95th Annual Dinner on 22 November at the London Park Lane Hilton. The closing date for entrants is midnight on 24 August 2011.
See also:
No comments yet
