Proactive Investors - UK car production rose 6.0% in the first three months of 2023, to 219,887 units, according to the latest figures published today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
An easing in the shortage of semiconductors and other components helped as factories produced 12,540 units more than in the same quarter last year, driven by exports which increased 6.6% and represented almost eight in 10 cars made.
March rounded off the period with volumes up 6.1% to 81,605 as, again, exports drove growth, up 10.4% to 61,546 units, offsetting a 5.1% decline in car production for the UK as 20,059 cars were made for the domestic market.
At 63.6%, the EU took the largest share of exported cars, (39,172 units), as shipments rose 4.9%, while those to the next biggest markets, the US and China declined 4.1% and 8.3% respectively.
British car makers continued to manufacture the latest hybrid, plug-in hybrid and battery electric vehicles, with combined volumes of these models surging 75.0% in March to 32,546 units.
Four in 10 cars built in the month featured ultra-low or zero emission powertrain technology.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “A second consecutive month of growth for UK car production gives cause for optimism, though volumes are still well below pre-pandemic levels.”
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