SMMT News

1. European Parliament election results announced
2. Rise in commercial vehicle registrations
3. Survey shows lack of funding prevents companies from capitalising on innovation
4. Commission presents new European energy security strategy
5. Robotic assistants provided to aid factory floor workers
6. Week ahead

SMMT Charitable Trust funds scheme to involve young people in automotive manufacturing.

Find out who has joined the premier automotive trade association and what they get from membership. New members – May 2014

Engine manufacturing output rose 2.9% in April to 217,599 units, as year-to-date volumes remain stable. April growth powered by production for export, which climbed 12.6% in the month. European market recovery and investment in new UK facilities bodes well for industry’s future.

Commercial vehicle (CV) manufacturing fell 27.3% in April, as the impact of restructuring continues. Year-to-date volumes down 20.6%, with reduced output for both home and export markets. Output expected to stabilise in second half of the year with upturn in European demand.

UK car manufacturing rose 21.3% in April to 133,437 units, the biggest monthly rise since July 2012. Year-to-date car production volumes increased 6.9%, with January-April exports up 8.7%. Full-scale production of new models boosts output at car plants nationwide.

Record numbers of UK small manufacturers are looking to take on staff as recruitment confidence hits a three-year high.

Supercar firm steps up its preparations for a new range of models

Today, SMMT released figures for April pre-registrations in the UK new car market.

SMMT will play host to three legendary hot hatch manufacturers as Ford, Renault and Volkswagen exhibit from 27 May to 5 July at the organisation’s Westminster showroom. The manufacturers will be showing the latest Ford Focus ST, Renault Clio Renaultsport…