Record exports drive manufacturing growth in 2011
- UK car manufacturing rose 5.8% to 1,343,810 in 2011 and ended the year with a 1.6% rise in December.
- CV output fell by just 1.4% to 121,312 in 2011 and was down 2.7% in December.
- UK engine production rose by 4.9% to 2,504,054 in 2011, despite a modest 1.3% fall in December.
“UK vehicle and engine production continues to lead the manufacturing recovery with increased output and exports taking a record-breaking share,” said Paul Everitt, SMMT Chief Executive. “In 2011, vehicle manufacturers renewed their commitment to the UK securing new model programmes, facilities and jobs for the long term. It is essential that industry and government continue to work in partnership to maximise the opportunities at all levels of the UK supply chain and encourage more investment in R&D, skills and new plant and machinery.”
Commenting on the figures, Business Minister Mark Prisk, said, “The global vehicle market grew by around four per cent in 2011. At the same time, UK vehicle production grew by nearly six per cent demonstrating how the UK has out-performed the market this year.
“Exports of UK-made cars and commercial vehicles have also risen from 75 per cent to over 80 per cent of total production to meet this growing demand.
“We have some of the best plants in the UK that are amongst the most productive in Europe. Multi-billion pound investment and the creation of new jobs in the automotive sector demonstrates that the UK can successfully compete for business across the world.”
Click through to download the full UK automotive manufacturing news release and data table for December 2011 (full year).
