The data shows that UK car output fell 0.2% in November, with 137,347 cars produced – down 277.

Year-to-date output saw a drop of 0.3% at 1,419,427 units, with the market now looking unlikely to improve on last year’s performance, which saw car production rise 3.1% to surpass 1.5 million units – the highest volume since 2007.

The SMMT said the figures were down to weakened exports, which were in contrast to continued growth for the home market, but added that the outlook for 2015 was better.

‘Model changes and economic uncertainty in export markets have flattened UK car production, but the industry remains in a strong position with growth expected to return next year,’ said Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive. ‘Global demand for UK automotive engineering continues to be at a high level, and manufacturing plants are seeing the benefits of significant recent investments. UK-built cars offer a vast range of technologies to lower carbon emissions and improve air quality, underlining the country’s important role in the continuing drive to reduce all emissions.’