UK Car Production Rises

In February, UK car production rose by 14.6% to 79,907 units, according to the latest figures published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). This marks the sixth consecutive month of growth and the best February performance since 2021.

Pretty much all major volume manufacturers experienced gains, fueled primarily by heightened production for the domestic market, which grew by 58.0% to 20,658 units, reflecting an impressive increase of 7,585 units.

Volumes for export also rose by 4.6% to 59,249 after a rise of 2,615 units with 74.1% of all cars made in February being sent abroad. The European Union received the largest proportion of exports (59.9%) followed by the US (14.8%), China (7.1%), Australia (3.3%) and Turkey (2.3%).

The production of electrified vehicles, including battery electric, plug-in hybrid, and hybrid models, remained steady, constituting more than a third (36.3%) of total output for the month. A combined total of 29,038 units were produced, marking a 6.0% increase compared to the previous year. Notably, two-thirds (67.3%) of these electrified models were manufactured for export markets, underscoring the importance of enhancing UK battery production and electric vehicle supply chain capabilities to meet growing demand.

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “Another month of growth for UK car production is welcome news, reflecting strong demand at home and around the world for the latest British-built cars. The industry is transitioning from internal combustion engine cars to electrified vehicles, building on the massive investment commitments made last year. The UK industry faces stiff competition, however, as global competitors seek to secure new models and technologies so a commitment to our industrial competitiveness, from all political parties in this likely election year, must be maintained.”