As well as the risk to supply chains from thousands of trucks having to queue to get in and out of the UK, leaving the EU without an ambitious trade deal could undermine our ambitions to lead the world in transport decarbonisation.
‘No deal’ would mean the immediate imposition of blanket tariffs under World Trade Organisation rules, adding billions to the cost of trade and, crucially, to the cost of building and buying ultra-low and zero emission vehicles.
These tariffs would also make the UK far less attractive as a manufacturing destination and further hamper our ambition to be a global leader in zero emission vehicle development, production and deployment, severely damaging industrial competitiveness.
The UK and EU automotive industries are deeply integrated. Anything that adds friction to that relationship is negative for businesses on either side of the Channel.
We need both sides to re-engage with vigour in the Brexit negotiation process, and for the UK government to honour its commitment to get a good deal done.
On a separate note, in response to demand, the SMMT Apprentice Support Programme has extended its application deadline to 31 October. Don’t lose your top talent when support is available.
