10:26 am, October 27, 2016
UK CAR exports have passed the million mark in 2016, new figures have shown.
Steady growth for car manufacturing through September has finally given way to the total export figure passing the million mark.
According to statistics published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, exports rose five per cent during September to hit a total of 123,119 units. An increase of 10.5 per cent in the overall year-to-date output was also recorded.
Demand for exports also increased, with the SMMT reporting a 10.5 per cent increase and taking overall exports past the million figure in the first three quarters of the year for the first time on record.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: ‘British-built cars are in demand across the world as demonstrated by the double-digit growth in exports this year, resulting in more than a million cars produced for international markets.
‘The vast majority of cars manufactured here in the UK are destined for abroad and future growth will depend on securing our international competitiveness and the barrier-free access to major global markets that has enabled UK automotive to thrive.’
The automotive industry in the UK currently accounts for more than £71.6 billion turnover each year, employing around 169,000 people directly and a further 814,000 people in the wider industry.
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