UK car production rose 7.4% in October while the production of commercial vehicles was up 10.7%.
According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, 69,524 cars were built in the UK last month, signalling a return to growth after September’s fall.
Meanwhile, UK production of battery electric (BEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and hybrid (HEV) vehicles rose by 20.3% to 24,115 units. Year-to-date, UK car factories have produced a record 61,339 BEVs, up 16.2% on the same period in 2021.
The SMMT also reported that CV production increased to 8,740 vans, buses, trucks, coaches and taxis, making it the highest output volume since October 2012 and continuing 10 consecutive months of growth.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “A return to growth for UK car production in October is welcome – though output is still down significantly on pre-Covid levels amid turbulent component supply.
“Getting the sector back on track in 2023 is a priority, given the jobs, exports and economic contribution the automotive industry sustains. UK car makers are doing all they can to ramp up production of the latest electrified vehicles, and help deliver net-zero, but more favourable conditions for investment are needed and needed urgently – especially in affordable and sustainable energy and availability of talent – as part of a supportive framework for automotive manufacturing.”
