UK car production rises

13/12/12

CAR PRODUCTION accelerated ahead last month, rising almost 5% according to figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

A total of 142,825 cars were manufactured in the UK in November 2012 - a 4.9% increase on the November 2011 figure, the SMMT said.

Commercial vehicle (CV) production fell 3.6% last month to 10,974, while engine production slipped 1.4% to 223,853.

The November figure took car production for the first 11 months of this year to more than 1.36 million - a 9.2% rise on the January-November 2011 total.

CV production for the year so far is down 5.9% at 105,188, while engine production is 0.3% down at just over 2.34 million.

SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt said: "UK car manufacturing has gone from strength to strength in 2012.

"The global appeal of UK-built products is a key factor in the strength of our manufacturing sector, supported by world-leading productivity and a dedicated and flexible workforce."

He went on: "This is good news, but there can be no room for complacency. The development of a long-term industrial strategy and consistent support by Government is essential to secure future success and more opportunities for the UK-based supply chain."