SMMT today published the latest UK production figures for commercial vehicles with 2,879 buses, coaches, vans, taxis and trucks rolling off factory floors in July. That is -81.1% below the same month last year, reflecting plant restructuring but also a strong July 2024 performance, which saw the biggest volumes for the month in 17 years.
While the sector navigates a difficult period, including weak business confidence and an uncertain global trading landscape, we look to deliver longer term stability and growth. Key to that is increasing the UK’s global competitiveness and attracting investment, which can be bolstered by a rapid implementation of the new Industrial Strategy – including the automotive-dedicated DRIVE35 programme. Further measures that reduce the cost of energy, scale up infrastructure rollout and address skills gaps will also have a substantial positive impact.
Shining a light on industry’s up-and-coming talent is important to attract the best young people to join our industry so SMMT is once again pleased to be partnering with Autocar for its Drivers of Change: New Talent awards. The awards are aimed at apprentices or those in the first two years of their first role, in any part of the automotive sector – celebrating the entire industry as a great place to work, irrespective of background, with exciting opportunities for a thriving career.
Nominations close on 10 September so submit yours now – with the stand-out stars, and one employer that is doing the most to support new talent, to be awarded a ceremony held in Coventry on 13 November.
The automotive industry is committed to being welcoming for people from diverse backgrounds and, as part of SMMT’s work to support that mission, we will be holding our third LGBTQ+ and Allies Workshop in partnership with Shoosmiths in Birmingham on 23 October. Similar to previous editions, the workshop will include an industry panel and we are looking for SMMT members to take part.
If you’re interested in participating as a speaker, please confirm here by the 10 September. The event will also include an interactive workshop facilitated by specialist employment lawyer Michael Briggs, as well as group discussion. Register your place here.
