CAR PRODUCTION AT LOWEST SINCE THE 1980S

CAR production in the UK last year crashed to its lowest level since 1984, figures out today reveal, writes Graham Hiscott.

The pandemic and the run up to Brexit triggered a near 30 per cent slump in output, said the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

Just 920,928 vehicles rolled off production lines – about 380,000 fewer than in 2019. The 2020 low compares with 1.7 million in 2016.

It is way down on the 1972 peak of 1.91 million. Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “These figures, the worst in a generation, reflect the devastating impact of the pandemic.

“Lockdowns are depressing demand, shuttering plants and threatening lives and livelihoods.”

Production is only estimated to recover to one million cars this year, not helped by the planned closure of Honda’s Swindon plant.

Mr Hawes said the UK would struggle to hit the 2016 high again.

More than eight out of 10 UK-made cars were exported, with half going to the EU. Nissan’s Sunderland-made Qashqai topped the list.

Picture: PA Brakes are on...motor making has slumped 30 per cent due to pandemic woes