Published by Insider Media
CAR PRODUCTION DROPS FOR FIFTH CONSECUTIVE MONTH
UK car production fell by almost 30 per cent during November, according to new figures, representing the fifth consecutive month of decline.
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders said that 75,756 units were produced during the 11th month of the year, the worst November performance since 1984.
Production for both domestic and overseas markets declined, down 18.8 per cent and 30.4 per cent respectively, as 30,487 fewer cars rolled off factory lines.
However, battery electric, plug-in hybrid and hybrid cars took a record share of production, accounting for 32.7 per cent of all cars made in the month, and (25 per cent over the year-to-date. Battery electric vehicle output, in particular, was up in November by 52.9 per cent to 10,359 units.
SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes said: "These are incredibly worrying figures, underscoring the severity of situation facing the automotive industry. Covid is impacting supply chains massively, causing global shortages - especially of semiconductors - which is likely to affect the sector throughout next year.
"With an increasingly negative economic backdrop, rising inflation and Covid resurgent home and abroad, the circumstances are the toughest in decades. With output massively down for the past five months and likely to continue, maintaining cashflow, especially in the supply chain, is of vital importance. We have to look to government to provide support measures in the same way it is recognising other Covid-impacted sectors.
"The industry is as well prepared as it can be for the implementation of full customs controls at UK borders from 1 January but any delays arising from ill-prepared freight or systems will place further stress on businesses that operate 'just in time'. Should any problems arise, contingency measures must be implemented immediately to keep cross border trade flowing smoothly."