UK car production figures inch up

Car production inched ahead last month but commercial vehicle (CV) production slowed considerably, figures revealed today.

A total of 135,456 cars were made in the UK in March 2012 - a 0.3% increase on the March 2011 figure, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) said.

But CV production only totalled 9,648 last month - a 21.3% drop on March 2011.

There were 227,957 engines made last month - 8.7% fewer than in March last year.

Car production for the first three months of this year, at 401,134, was 12.3% up on the January-March 2011 total.

But CV production in the first three months was down 9.6% while engine production fell 0.5%.

SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt said: "Car production held firm in March contributing to 12.3% growth during the first quarter of 2012."

He went on: "Challenging economic conditions in mainland Europe are a concern, but the sector continues to win business in important and faster-growing export markets.

"The prospects for the UK motor industry are extremely good with new investment, commitment and jobs being created by global automotive companies."

PA