Car production up for fourth straight month
UK car production rose for the fourth consecutive month in May, up 26.9% year on year to 79,046 units.
According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), manufacturers defied difficult economic conditions to produce 16,762 more units than in the same month last year.
There was double-digit growth for domestic and overseas orders, with volumes for the UK surging by 45.4% to 16,188 units and exports rising 22.9% to 62,858 units.
Meanwhile, combined hybrid electric, plug-in hybrid and battery electric vehicle volumes were up 95.4% in May to 27,636 units and representing 35% of all cars made in the month.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “Another month of growth for UK car production is good news and a sign that, despite challenging economic conditions, the industry’s foundations are strong. But with weak GDP growth, high inflation and rising interest rates, it’s crucial that UK car factories stay globally competitive. All political parties must recognise the strategic importance of this sector and back our call for an industrial strategy that supports local production, assures export market access and attracts further investment to safeguard our future.”
