Brexit yet to dent UK car production

UK car production remains strong after the Brexit vote, according to figures published by SMMT (Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders).

The figures, released today, show that UK car manufacturing achieved its 12th consecutive month of growth in July, with year-to-date production growing by 12.3% to 1,023,723 units – the first time in 12 years that volumes have surpassed one million in the first seven months.

The report shows that the UK's automotive industry is still going strong, without any obvious knock-on effect from Brexit, as new models built in the UK continue to drive global demand.

The most popular models produced in the UK include the Nissan Qashqai, built at the brand’s Sunderland plant, with a volume of 298,947. The Toyota Auris is the second most popular model built in the UK, with a volume of 147,907 (less than half that of the Nissan Qashqai). The Nissan Juke comes in third place, with a production volume of 119,065.

Demand in July was up both at home and abroad, with a 14.1% increase in output for the domestic market. Exports are up 6% to 101,184 units, with 77.8% of cars produced destined for overseas markets.

The automotive industry is a vital part of the UK economy, accounting for more than £71.6 billion in turnover. A total of 814,000 people are currently employed in the automotive industry across the UK, with 169,000 people employed directly in manufacturing. It accounts for 12.0% of total UK export of goods and invests £2.5 billion each year in automotive R&D, with more than 30 manufacturers building in excess of 70 vehicle models in the UK.

In 2015, UK automotive manufacturers produced 1,682,156 vehicles, with 1,587,677 of those being cars. Today’s figures show that UK car production is on track for 2016 to beat last year’s figures.

Any impact from Brexit is yet to be seen, with a strong order bank still in place from prior to the June referendum. If there is any effect on UK car production figures from Britain's expected departure from the EU, it is likely to be felt in the coming months and years. 

SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes said: “UK car production in 2016 is booming, with new British-built models in demand across the world. Manufacturers have invested billions to develop exciting new models and produce them competitively here in the UK.

“Future success will depend on continued new car demand and attracting the next wave of investment, so Britain must demonstrate it remains competitive and open for business.”

However, director of strategy at Close Brothers Motor Finance, Chris Bosworth, thinks the boom may well be coming to an end. He said: “Today’s figures for production in the car manufacturing industry continue to emulate the volumes we have seen over the last year, with production and output accelerating at unprecedented levels. However, as figures revealed earlier this week show, there are a number of factors that indicate this growth may be coming to the end.