UK car output lowest since 2010
THE number of cars built in the UK fell to its lowest level in almost a decade in 2019, with a further decline expected this year, new figures reveal.
Production was down by 14.2% to 1.3 million vehicles, the lowest since 2010, amid structural changes in the industry, weak confidence in the UK, slower demand overseas and Brexit issues.
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) said factory shutdowns last spring and autumn, timed to deal with expected disruption from leaving the EU, had a “marked effect” on production.
Production for UK car buyers fell by 12.3% to 247,000 and by 14.7% for exports, although overseas orders accounted for more than four out of five cars built in UK factories.
Shipments to EU countries fell by 11.1% last year, but the bloc remains the industry’s most important market, with its share of exports increasing by 2% to 54.8%, said the SMMT.
Exports to other countries fell, by 26% to China, 17% to Japan and almost 10% to the United States.
Around 160,000 workers are employed by car manufacturers in this country, but decisions on the future of factories remain on hold as firms wait for details of a post-Brexit trade deal.
SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes said: “It is essential we re-establish our global competitiveness and that starts with an ambitious free trade agreement with Europe, one that guarantees all automotive products can be bought and sold without tariffs.”