Rocky road

British car production fell by 58.7 per cent in January, according to figures released on 20 February by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (

).

The SMMT reported that commercial vehicle production slumped dramatically following extended winter shutdowns by major UK car manufacturers.

A total of 61,404 cars were produced last month, a significant reduction from the same period a year ago. Domestic car production fell 72.3 per cent to 10,132 vehicles, while 83.5 per cent of the 61,404 cars produced were exported.

Paul Everitt, the SMMT’s chief executive, said that the figures highlighted the need for government intervention: ‘The proportion of cars exported peaked in January - evidence of the resilience of UK automotive manufacturing. European markets have been lifted by scrappage incentive schemes and the SMMT continues its call for a UK plan to boost the new vehicle market and support employment throughout the sector. The motor industry reiterates its request for an urgent government response.’