Falling exports dampen engine production
Engine production in the UK fell 9.3% in February, with 214,155 units produced.
Production for domestic car plants rose 14%, while exports fell 21%.
This is according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), which reported that more than 450,000 engines were built in Britain in the first two months of the year, with 58.4% exported.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “The UK is a global leader in engine manufacturing, thanks to its highly skilled workforce producing cutting-edge technology that is in demand the world over. However, with plants around the world now on coronavirus-led shutdown, the outlook is extremely uncertain.
“Government’s extraordinary package of emergency support for businesses and workers is very welcome, but if we are to maintain the sector’s competitiveness for the long term, these measures, including access to finance, must be made available immediately and to companies of all sizes.”
