Engine production up nearly a third
Engine production in the UK rose 31.7% in March compared to March 2020.
According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, output for domestic and overseas markets increased 50.4% and 19.9% respectively, although performance in first quarter is still down 11.1%, with 534,793 engines manufactured.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “These figures must be set in context as output in March 2020 was severely impacted by the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, which closed factories. UK engine production in the first quarter is down and the immediate outlook remains challenging. Companies are working tirelessly to maintain cross border trade, deal with Covid, and manage global component shortages, most obviously of semiconductors. It’s critical, therefore, that measures are taken to support UK automotive manufacturing competitiveness in the months ahead.”
