SMMT News

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…

SMMT’s weekly round-up, including all the latest news from UK automotive and a message from SMMT’s Chief Executive. CLICK HERE: SMMT Update 319 online.

1. Local and European elections
2. UK economy grows 0.8% in first quarter
3. UK to announce more powers to Scotland
4. IoD add support to UK business voice on EU membership
5. NEET at lowest levels since 2005
6. Week ahead

1. Commission sets out strategy to curb CO2 emissions from trucks, buses and coaches
2. Fifth round of US trade negotiations take place
3. State Aid Modernisation package updated
4. Spring economic outlook
5. European elections
6. Week ahead

Based on results, which are preliminary in some cases, passenger vehicle registrations were up 4.6% in April.

Bentley is set to create more than 140 new jobs at its Crewe headquarters as part of a previously-announced £800 million investment programme. As part of new model preparations, the recruitment drive will welcome 90 new skilled engineers to the…