Car manufacturing at five-year high, says SMMT
UK car manufacturing broke all-time export records in 2012, with volumes sent overseas exceeding 1.2 million, up 8% on last year, reports the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
Total vehicle output increased 8% last year to 1.58 million units, the highest level since 2008.
Car output rose 9% in 2012 to 1.46 million units, ending the year with a 6% rise in December.
SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt said 2012 had been a very good year and the outlook for 2013 remained positive. Demand in faster growing global markets would offset the continued weakness in European economies, he added.
"The £6 billion of investment committed to UK facilities, new model programmes and R&D signals a bright future and many new opportunities for companies in the supply chain. These remain extremely challenging times and it is essential industry and government continue to work together to secure long-term industrial growth."
