SMMT News

SMMT International Bulletin May 2014 edition

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

The Skills and Enterprise Minister, Matthew Hancock MP, has today announced a new £20m opportunity to help automotive supply chain businesses develop their workforce skills to maximise growth opportunities.

The full commodity list for SMMT Meet the Buyer 2014 is now available, with aluminium extrusions, small assemblies and chrome plating on zinc diecasting among the most sought-after components by OEMs.

SMMT welcomes balanced approach to incentivise consumers and technical developments in all transport segments

In an exhibition at its Westminster headquarters, SMMT is marking the start of the 2014 CV Show, which opens its doors this Tuesday, 29 April at the NEC in Birmingham.

1. UK car and engine production up in March 2014
2. First investment of Advanced Propulsion Centre announced
3. TfL funds new project to improve blind spot safety
4. LowCVP launches call for evidence on investment in UK automotive sector
5. Week ahead

1. Parliament adopts report on maximum weights and dimensions of road vehicles
2. Parliament endorses agreement on eCall
3. Parliament adopts agreement on Alternative Fuels Infrastructure
4. Parliament refers Report on the reregistration of motor vehicles back to Committee
5. Global passenger vehicle demand up 6.1% in the first quarter over the previous year
6. Week ahead

Engine manufacturing output grows 4.5% in March to 229,959 units, finishing Q1 down 1.3% at 651,255. Production for export rises 9.5% in the month, offsetting 3.6% home market decline.

Commercial vehicle (CV) manufacturing showing signs of optimism, despite 17.7% monthly fall. Industry continues to feel effects of 2013 restructuring, but European demand now on the up.