UK car and commercial production tumbles 60%

New data published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) showed UK car production continuing to fall sharply, down 58.7% in January, while commercial vehicle production also posted a substantial fall, down 59.9%. Commenting on the figures, SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt said: “Following extended winter shutdowns, vehicle output continued to fall in January in line with expectations. The extent of the decline highlights the critical need for further government action to deliver the measures already announced and ease access to finance and credit. The proportion of cars exported peaked in January, evidence of the resilience of UK automotive manufacturing. European markets have been lifted by scrappage incentive schemes and SMMT continues its call for a UK plan to boost the new vehicle market and support employment throughout the sector. The motor industry reiterates its request for an urgent government response.” The figures showed car production numbers at 61,404, with 83.5% of that number being built for export. Commercial vehicle production stood at 8,351 in January, three quarters of which were exported.