UK car production drops 4.9% In May

04/07/11

By Shaun Teale

The number of cars produced in the UK dropped 4.9 per cent year-on-year to 99,280 in May, according to new figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

Despite the fall in car production last month, the year-to-May figure rose 4.6 per cent to 542,816.

A total of 10,205 commercial vehicles (CV) were produced last month, down 5 per cent year-on-year, while engine production rose 4 per cent to 214,218.

For the year to May, CV production fell 5.55 per cent to 50,995, while engine production was up 5.6 per cent compared with the corresponding period in 2010.

Recent announcements by various manufacturers such as Nissan and BMW to invest in UK plants boosted the motor industry.

Paul Everitt, chief executive of SMMT, said: "Recent announcements demonstrate the commitment being made by global vehicle manufacturers to the UK motor industry.

“These will secure future production and jobs, as well as opening up new opportunities for the UK-based supply chain."