Skip advert
Advertisement

UK car industry production down for third month in a row

Output remains strong but the number of cars rolling off UK production lines has fallen and SMMT blames Brexit

NIssan Qashqai plant, factory, build, plant, sunderland

The number of cars built in the UK fell 14% in June to 137,000 units, the third consecutive month of declining production.

Output in the first half of the year decreased 3% to 867,000 but is still at its second highest point for 12 years, according to data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

Advertisement - Article continues below

• Facelifted Nissan Qashqai production officially starts in Sunderland

79% of British-built cars were exported to overseas buyers between January and June, the highest for five years, while demand from the UK market fell 10% to 183,000 units.

Mike Hawes, chief executive of SMMT, said the UK’s upcoming exit from the European Union was hitting investor confidence, adding: “Brexit uncertainty is not helping investment and growth is stalling. The Government has been in ‘listening’ mode but now it must put on the table the concrete plans that will assure the future competitiveness of the sector.”

Best selling cars 2017

An independent forecast for SMMT suggests production will increase in the second half of the year thanks to the release of new models including the Range Rover Velar, Jaguar XF Sportbrake and facelifted Nissan Qashqai.

The SMMT has also suggested that a bad Brexit deal could reduce the choice available to UK car buyers as manufacturers decide not to sell certain models in this country.

Do you agree that Brexit uncertainty is affecting the motor industry? Tell us your thoughts in the comments...

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Ford Escort Mexico gets new lease of life with MST Sports
MST Ford Escort - front 3/4

Ford Escort Mexico gets new lease of life with MST Sports

While not officially Fords, the MST Mk1 and Mk2 Sports should drive as sharply as they look
News
7 Jul 2025
Car Deal of the Day: Skoda Octavia vRS is the consummate all-rounder and only £255 a month!
Skoda Octavia vRS - front cornering

Car Deal of the Day: Skoda Octavia vRS is the consummate all-rounder and only £255 a month!

A three-time Auto Express Family Car of the Year winner, paired with Golf GTI power, is our Deal of the Day for 6 July
News
6 Jul 2025
New Volvo XC60 2025 facelift review: big-selling SUV gets a new lease of life
Volvo XC60 facelift - front tracking

New Volvo XC60 2025 facelift review: big-selling SUV gets a new lease of life

This refreshed Swedish SUV focuses on familiar areas of strength to take on BMW and Audi
Road tests
4 Jul 2025