October UK production up

During October, UK car output rose by 6 per cent, 31.1 per cent over the year-to-date, while commercial vehicle production rose 47.1 per cent in October; 39 per cent over the year-to-date.

However, October also saw engine production in the UK fall by 5.3 per cent, but remains up 19.7 per cent over the-year-to-date.

SMMT chief executive, Paul Everitt, said: ‘UK vehicle production rose 8.8% in October and signals steady improvement in global vehicle markets and the strength of the UK product line-up.

‘It is extremely important that government continues to champion the role of vehicle manufacturing in rebalancing the national economy and works with the automotive industry to create conditions for increased investment in R&D, skills and capital equipment. Industry’s focus on low carbon technology and its global reach can help generate the private sector growth the country needs.’