UK car production powers ahead

21/11/11

By Stephanie Gonzalez

UK car production powered ahead in October driven by strong demand from abroad, figures show.

The number of cars rolling off the UK assembly line last month reached 128,654, a 14.1 per cent increase on October 2010, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) said.

Figures for the year so far are also positive, with more than 1.11 million cars made, a 5.8 per cent improvement on the same 10-month period last year.

Engine production continued the trend, with a 12 per cent rise on October last year (236,248) and a 5.1 per cent rise for the first 10 months of 2011 at 1.21 million.

However, commercial production suffered a fall of 2.9 per cent, to 11,337, in October, adding to a 2.7 per cent dip for the 10 months of this year, at 100,363.

Chief executive at the SMMT, Paul Everitt, said: "October was another positive month for UK vehicle production, with car manufacturing at its highest level since March.

"Strong export demand for UK-built cars and engines is good news for the economy during this difficult period. 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."