UK car manufacturing figures rose in July 2011, representing some rare good news in the UK manufacturing sector amid continuing gloom and suspicion that austerity measures may be tipping the UK back into recession.
The figures were 1.3% in July on July 2010's figures and also up 3.7% over the first seven months of 2011.
98,094 vehicles were manufactured in the UK in July, with 83.6% exported to foreign markets. The share of exports rose significantly in July, as demand from developing overseas markets continues to be strong.
However, commercial vehicle output declined by 5.9% in July and was down 5.1% over the January-July period.
Vehicle production has bounced back strongly, after a particularly poor mid-2009 when manufacturers temporarily halted production as the credit crunch hit car sales across Europe and led to massive oversupply.
However the figures have not reached levels of production common between 2006-08, prior to the credit crunch.
UK engine production remained relatively stable, dipping by just 0.4% in July and up by 4.0% for the year-to-date.
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) say that vehicle manufacturing is forecast to grow steadily, with a continued focus on export markets.
“Economic growth remains fragile but thanks to a strong export market, automotive manufacturing continues to outperform the broader economy," said SMMT Chief Executive Paul Everitt.