UK car manufacturing breaks export records in 2012
Total vehicle output reached its highest level since 2008 at 1.58 million units – an increase of 8%.
Car output was up 9% in 2012 to 1.46 million units, ending the year with a 6% rise in December.
Business Secretary Vince Cable said the news is ‘a great tribute to our manufacturing strengths, particularly in the face of challenging trading conditions in Europe and strong international competition’.
He added: ‘There is no room for complacency and to build on this competitive advantage we are working jointly with the auto sector on a long-term industrial strategy.’
Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive, said that the outlook for 2013 remains positive, with demand in many faster growing global markets offsetting the continued weakness in European economies.
He commented: ‘The £6bn 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.’
Natalie Middleton
Natalie has worked as a fleet journalist for over 20 years, previously as assistant editor on the former Company Car magazine before joining Fleet World in 2006. Prior to this, she worked on a range of B2B titles, including Insurance Age and Insurance Day.
