UK automotive trade association, SMMT says it firmly believes there is still a “compelling case” for Britain to remain in the European Union (EU).

The UK is to put an ‘in-out’ question to the British people in a 23 June referendum, which is already seeing fierce battle joined and the political temperature rapidly rising as both camps ratchet up the political stakes.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

“It is about what our members think,” SMMT chief executive, Mike Hawes told just-auto on the sidelines of this week’s Commercial Vehicle Show in the UK Midlands city of Birmingham. “They have been very clear – 77% in favour of remain – access of a free market and the ability to influence regulations.

“I still believe it makes a compelling case. A number of members have said they cannot imagine any scenario being better than they one they have. I understand the frustration many have about regulation – we want it to be fair [and] cost effective.

“Regulation is not necessarily a bad thing, but it should not inhibit competitiveness. We hope a UK in Europe can ensure a strong voice for competitiveness.”

Just Auto Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Just Auto Technology Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact.

Excellence in Action
Continental has secured the Window Displays Innovation Award in the 2025 Just Auto Excellence Awards for its Window Projection solution, transforming side windows into dynamic, data-rich canvases. Discover how this compact projection technology and intelligent software are reshaping in-car UX and opening fresh revenue streams for OEMs and mobility providers.

Discover the Impact