UK automobile manufacturing has returned to progress, though it’s nonetheless effectively under pre-pandemic ranges, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders says.
Some 69,524 vehicles have been inbuilt October, up 7.4% on the identical month a 12 months in the past.
September had seen a fall in numbers, after 4 consecutive months of progress, illustrating how provide chain issues – notably international chip shortages – have been affecting UK automobile producers, the SMMT mentioned.
Chips type a crucial a part of trendy automobile making, with every automobile usually having 1,500 to three,000.
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More than eight out of each 10 vehicles have been made to export, with greater than half of these heading for the EU, but additionally the US, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and Turkey.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief government, mentioned: “A return to progress for UK automobile manufacturing in October is welcome – although output continues to be down considerably on pre-COVID ranges amid turbulent part provide.
“Getting the sector back on track in 2023 is a priority, given the jobs, exports and economic contribution the automotive industry sustains.
“UK automobile makers are doing all they will to ramp up manufacturing of the most recent electrified automobiles, and assist ship internet zero, however extra beneficial situations for funding are wanted and wanted urgently – particularly in reasonably priced and sustainable vitality and availability of expertise – as a part of a supportive framework for automotive manufacturing.”
UK manufacturing of battery electrical (BEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and hybrid (HEV) automobiles additionally rose, with mixed volumes up 20.3% to 24,115 models.
In the 12 months to this point, UK automobile factories have produced a file 61,339 BEVs – up 16.2% on the identical interval in 2021.
Source: information.sky.com”