Exports boost UK car production in April

SMMT figures reveal that 149,334 cars were built in the month, a 16% increase on April 2015

UK car manufacturing continued to grow in April, according to figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

The figures reveal that 149,334 cars were built in the month, a 16% increase on April 2015, and marking the ninth consecutive month of growth.

Increasing overseas demand for British-built cars was again the driving force behind the growth: production for export jumped 24% in April, counterbalancing a 7.8% decline in cars made for the domestic market.

April’s figures bolster an already positive 2016 for UK car output, with 588,024 cars built in the first four months of the year – up 11% on the equivalent period in 2015.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “Britain’s car manufacturing sector continues to thrive with a steady domestic market and surging demand from overseas, including our biggest export destination, Europe. This growth represents a significant endorsement of the strength and quality of the UK automotive industry.”