UK car production highest for month of May since 2004
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LONDON -- Strong overseas demand helped British car production rise 42 percent to 141,146 in May, the highest level recorded for the month since 2004, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Car Traders said today.
Exports accounted for 120,120 of the total - up 45.5 percent on the year, the SMMT said.
May's annual rise in car output compared with low production in May 2011, when manufacturers' supply chains were disrupted by Japan's earthquake and tsunami, the industry body noted.
Output in the year-to-date was up by 17 percent to 636,923.
"This boost, coupled with robust year-to-date results, demonstrates the strength of UK automotive manufacturing and shows why it continues to attract high levels of international investment," said SMMT Chief Executive Paul Everitt.
The largely foreign-owned car industry has been one of the few bright spots in the British economy, with carmakers Jaguar Land Rover and Nissan announcing the creation of new jobs in the country this year.
Sources: Reuters and Automotive News Europe
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