UK factories built 132,555 engines in November, down 30.2% year on year. Production for both domestic and export markets fell by 22.4% and 35.2% respectively and year to date output was off 9.5% to 1,539,786 units compared to a weak 2020 and 36.3% below the five-year average.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “Engine output declining for the sixth consecutive month underscores the severity of the current situation. The global shortage of semiconductors continues to devastate production of both finished vehicles and engines, with knock-on effects into the supply chain threatening the viability of many companies.

“With ongoing uncertainty over the likely impact of the pandemic and possible disruption to trade with the EU with the implementation of full border controls from 1 January, confidence is extremely low, so government must undertake all actions to maintain both the viability and international competitiveness of this valuable sector.”