SMMT News

More than 250,000 UK cars built in first two months of 2015, nearly 130,000 in February.
Number of cars produced for the domestic market up 21.1% to 33,813 units.
Market positive with UK manufacturers poised to see return on billions of pounds worth of investment.

UK automotive industry trade body The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) is set to bring together automotive industry experts and government ministers for the first time to debate the future of the connected car.

British cars are being made with more British-sourced parts as the UK automotive industry’s renaissance continues apace, new research reveals. Figures from a new Automotive Council report show that domestic component makers sold 19% more products to UK vehicle producers last year than in 2013.

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

In celebration of National Apprenticeship Week (09-13 March 2015), SMMT hosted Greenpower Education Trust’s live build of an electric racing car, with help from Chelsea Academy’s Formula E School Series team. The student’s were joined by SMMT Chief Executive, Mike Hawes, who helped to build the car.

1. New EU rules for safer and more eco-friendly lorries
2. ACEA – position on weights and dimensions
3. Environment Council discusses Energy Union
4. European Commission – Consultation on mid-term review of 2011 White Paper on Transport
5. TTIP priorities prompted around 8th negotiating round
6. Week ahead

1. Consumer campaign on latest low-emission car technology
2. Highways England to take over motorways
3. Government departments sign up to ‘green revolution’
4. £65 million funding for ultra-low emission cities and buses
5. £3 million green bus funding
6. Environmental Audit Committee: Report on air quality
7. Week ahead

Bentley has continued its investment into its Crewe headquarters by announcing that it will recruit its largest number of apprentices in 25 years.

British cars are being made with more British-sourced components as the UK automotive industry’s renaissance continues apace, new research reveals. Figures from a new Automotive Council report show that domestic component makers sold 19% more products to UK vehicle producers last year than in 2013.

Today, SMMT has launched a nationwide consumer campaign to challenge the demonisation of diesel and raise awareness of the latest low-emission technology available. It is accompanied by a diesel myth-busting guide – available at www.dieselfacts.co.uk. In a press conference to…