Thursday, 15 March 2012

UK car production continued to grow in February, up 23.5 per cent while year to date output is up 19.6 per cent.

UK engine manufacturing also increased, up 3.6 per cent in February and 4.3 per cent over the year-to-date, according to figures from the SMMT.

Production of commercial vehicles, however, fell slightly in February, down 2.7 per cent and down 2 per cent in the first two months of the year.

“Car manufacturing rose 23.5 per cent in February maintaining the trend of strong export-led growth and confirming the importance of manufacturing to a rebalanced and prosperous economy,” said SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt.

“The UK automotive sector continues to attract investment and generate new jobs. Despite recent success there can be no complacency.

“It is essential the Chancellor uses next week’s Budget to deliver on its growth strategy and boost the UK’s competitiveness by encouraging private sector investment in R&D, capital equipment and skills,” he said.