Car production spikes by a third
UK car production surged 31.6% in July, marking the sixth consecutive month of growth.
According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), 76,451 units rolled off factory lines in the month, with domestic output up 13.7% and exports rising by 36%.
However, output remained 29.4% lower than pre-pandemic July 2019.
Meanwhile, production of hybrid electric, plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles rose by 73.9% to 30,180 units, and representing almost two in every five cars made in July. Since January, more than 200,000 EVs have now been produced, which is almost double the amount produced in the same period last year.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “Six months of growth shows that British car production is recovering and, with electrified models increasingly driving volumes, the future is more positive. Recent investment announcements have undoubtedly bolstered the sector but global competition remains tough. If we are to attract further investment and produce the next generation of zero emission models and technologies, we need a coherent strategy that builds on our strengths and supports all aspects of advanced automotive manufacturing.”
