SMMT News

Figures released this week by the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA) show that that the UK commercial vehicle market is continuing to grow at a greater rate than the majority of Europe. While overall registrations in the EU grew 8.0% in the first two months of 2015, many markets were unable to keep pace with British CV demand, which over the same period increased by 21.9%.

Honda has announced that it will invest £200 million into its flagship manufacturing centre in Swindon, making the UK the global production hub for the next generation Civic five-door. The funding will help Honda implement new, advanced production technologies and processes and safeguard thousands of UK jobs.

Three global vehicle manufacturers highlight commitment to UK in six day investment spree.
Honda, Jaguar Land Rover and London Taxi Company each commit to nine-figure investments.
UK car production up by 50% since 2009 to more than 1.5 million units in 2014.

SMMT’s weekly round-up, including all the latest news from UK automotive and a message from SMMT’s Chief Executive.

The London Taxi Company announced that it will invest £250m to build a state of the art new research, assembly and development facility, for its next generation of ultra low emission taxis.

Jaguar Land Rover confirmed this week that it has committed £600m to its advanced vehicle manufacturing facilities in the West Midlands.

1. London ULEZ to begin in 2020
2. SMMTConnected event held
3. OLEV announces plug-in van grant extension and fund for greener taxis
4. Plans for idling charge to be implemented
5. Acts given Royal Assent
6. New Lobbyist Register
7. Week ahead

1. Commission consultation on reduction of GHG
2. EU commercial vehicle registrations up 8%
3. Launch of INGRESS Industry Group on EU Standardisation
4. Council agrees negotiating position on MSR
5. Leaders of European cities make pledge to tackle climate change
6. Week ahead

Business Secretary Vince Cable announced £80m for four new projects that will develop and manufacture new low emission innovations in the UK.

Find out who has joined the premier automotive trade association and what they get from membership. New members – March 2015