Engine production suffers 40% slump
UK engine production was 40% down in March, according to figures released by the Society for Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
It found that production for domestic car plants decreased 35.7%, with steeper fall for exports, down 42.4%. Meanwhile, more than 598,000 engines were built in Britain in first three months, with 59.4% exported.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “These figures show the significant impact of coronavirus-led shutdowns on automotive plants across the UK, with the closure of markets worldwide affecting the entire sector. However, attention is now turning to the safe restart of vehicle production, which, providing the end-consumer is ready, will drive engine demand. We need government support and coordination, however, to implement a clear plan for all for so that the industry can get back to delivering for the UK economy again.”
