- David Hort
UK car production up by 14 per cent
Car production grew by 14 per cent in October, with UK production plants rolling out more than 128,000 cars.
That makes it the strongest month for production since March, when 135,052 vehicles were built, and is enough to boost year-to-date sales by 5.8 per cent in 2011, when compared to 2010 figures.
Engine production also increased by 12 per cent in the UK, according to figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT); again up for the year by a similar 5.7 per cent.
“Strong export demand for UK-built cars and engines is good news for the economy during this difficult period," said Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive.
The news doesn’t change the general outlook for the UK economy however with Everitt outlining the poor performance of the new car market, confirmed earlier in November with the release of SMMT’s car registration figures for October.
“Weak UK market demand is a cause for concern and makes it essential that the Chancellor uses his Autumn Statement to help encourage private sector investment and boost economic growth."
October’s new car sales rose by 2.6 per cent when compared to the same period in 2010, however year-to-date figures are still down 4.5 per cent on 2010, forcing Everitt to implore the government to encourage growth and spending in the new car market with an almost identical plea.
“We expect market conditions to remain challenging and hope the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement later this month will help to boost economic growth and consumer confidence," he said earlier this month.