UK car production saw a 6% increase in the first quarter of 2023, reaching 219,887 units, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). The SMMT attributed this rise to the easing of the global shortage of semiconductors and other components. The factories produced 12,540 units more than Q1 of last year. The figures for March showed a 6.1% increase to 81,605 units, driven by exports which grew by 10.4% to 61,546 units, despite a fall of 5.1% in car production for the UK. The sales of hybrid, plug-in hybrid and battery electric vehicles rose by 75% in March to 32,546 units, with four in ten cars featuring zero emission powertrain technology. The SMMT predicts that more than 20 models of electric cars, buses, trucks and taxis will be in production in the UK by 2025. Mike Hawes, Chief Executive of SMMT, said that although this is the second consecutive month of growth for UK car production, volumes are still lower than pre-pandemic levels. Hawes added that in order to compete globally, the UK needs to reduce the high cost of energy, reform business rates and promote itself internationally for a zero carbon automotive future.
Increase of 6% in UK Car Production in Q1 Due to Reduced Impact of Chip Shortage
