British car manufacturing faced its worst start to the year in January since 2009, according to new figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT)…
Car Manufacturing Sharply Declines
Last January was the worst on record for car manufacturing in the UK since 2009. Car production fell by a considerable 20.1% over the course of the month. According to the SMMT, just 68,790 vehicles rolled off of production lines throughout the country.
Indeed, output was down by 17,262 vehicles when compared with January 2021; itself one of the worst Januarys on record for car manufacturing, largely as a result of shortages, Covid and Brexit.
According to the SMMT, a number of factors have contributed to the sharp decline in production. These include the ongoing global shortage of semiconductors and the closure of Honda’s plant in Swindon.
A ‘Torrid’ Start
Mike Hawes, chief executive at the SMMT, commented on the bleak situation within the industry. He said, “it’s another torrid start to the year as global supply issues and structural changes squeeze output while model changes impact production scheduling. The UK automotive manufacturing industry is, however, fundamentally strong; and recent investment announcements are testament to the potential for growth, not least in terms of rising EV production”.
He continued, “long-term recovery can only be delivered, however, if global competitiveness is assured and for that we must address both inflationary and fixed costs, most obviously escalating energy prices, but also fiscal and trading costs. Every measure must be taken if we are to secure a bright, electrified future for our world-class automotive manufacturing base and the high skilled, high value jobs it creates across Britain”.
Five Ways Fleets Can Effectively Transition To EVs – https://autoservefleet.co.uk/latest-news/five-ways-fleets-can-effectively-transition-to-evs/
Fuel Prices Reach New Record And Will ‘Undoubtedly’ Rise Further – https://autoserve.co.uk/motoring-news/fuel-prices-reach-new-record-and-will-undoubtedly-rise-further/