Record exports drive UK car manufacturing
UK car manufacturing rose 5.8 per cent in 2011, to over 1.3 million cars, the latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) reveal. The recovery in UK car manufacture is largely attributed to a record rise in exports, with 1.1 million cars produced in the UK exported during the year- a 17 per cent increase on the previous year. Exports now account for 84.9 per cent of all cars made here.
Engine production also reported an increase, with manufacture increasing 4.9 per cent to 2,504,054 in 2011, despite a decline in December of 1.3 per cent. Elsewhere, the UK manufacturing sector didn’t fare as well, with the production of commercial vehicles falling by 1.4 per cent to 121,312 in 2011, down 2.7 per cent in December alone. Exports of UK made vans fell 18.9 per cent last year, which had a critical impact on demand for vans, with exports still accounting for over half of all vans produced.
“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.”
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