The latest figures from the SMMT bring the total YtD production figure to 1,286,287 cars, a rise of 5.4%.

The rise in October was supported by a sharp increase in manufacturing for the home market, which was up to 52.4%, while export growth held strong at 11.4%.

The SMMT highlightd that around 50% of UK car exports go to Europe – after months of decline, EU demand shows signs of improving, now recording two consecutive months of growth.

‘UK car manufacturing for the home market increased strongly in October raising the year's performance 26.6% ahead of 2012,’ said Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive. ‘More than 15 brands build 50-plus models of car across the UK with volume and niche offerings providing a wealth of choice for our home and export markets. With European demand showing early signs of recovery, we expect production to continue positively in the coming months.’