Provisional output data released today by the Office for National Statistics shows:
- UK car production rose 1.7 per cent to 143,461 units in February
- Export market led growth, rising 5.7 per cent to 98,322 units
- Year-to-date production just one per cent down on strong 2004 level
SMMT chief executive, Christopher Macgowan, commented, ‘Car production in 2005 remains steady, with an encouraging boost in output last month. Once again, export volumes are leading growth. The lion’s share of these cars are destined for European markets, but it is manufacturers with a strong interest in the USA that are feeling the heat of an unfavourable exchange rate.’
CV production rises in February
Provisional output data released today by the Office for National Statistics shows:
- February CV production rose 3.9 per cent, to 18,012 units
- Export growth remains strong, up 7.5 per cent
- Year-to-February fell 5.5 per cent on same period last year
‘Commercial vehicle assembly in the UK saw firm growth in 2004 and we expect that trend to continue in 2005, albeit at a more modest pace’, said Christopher Macgowan, SMMT chief executive. ‘UK manufacturing facilities are up to the challenge of meeting European demand and a range of new vehicles will hit the market in 2005. Recent months have shown that the rate of progress will vary from month to month, but the underlying trend in assembly volume remains positive. The UK home market is expected to remain in robust health with key European markets continuing to present more positive surprises.’
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