10:38 am, August 18, 2011
AUTOMOTIVE manufacturing in the UK ‘continues to out perform the broader economy’ says the SMMT.
Car manufacturing rose 1.3 per cent in July and was up 3.7 per cent over the first seven months of 2011, while commercial vehicle output declined 5.9 per cent in July and was down 5.1 per cent over the January-July period.
UK engine production remained level, dipping just 0.4 per cent in July and up 4.0 per cent for the year-to-date.
The SMMT predicts that vehicle manufacturing in the UK will grow steadily, with a continued focus on export markets.
‘Economic growth remains fragile but thanks to a strong export market, automotive manufacturing continues to outperform the broader economy,’ said SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt. ‘SMMT expects vehicle and engine production to continue to rise fuelled by demand in the fast growing BRIC economies, as well as mainland Europe and the US. The UK industry is globally recognised for its high quality, innovative design and exceptional reliability.’
