UK car production off 11.8% to 115,651 units last month can be explained by the ending of Peugeot production in the country and the Corolla-to-Auris model changeover at Toyota’s plant, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) said on Friday.
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Year to date output was off 4.2% to 239,841 while 75% of production – 179,787 cars, down 1% – has been exported.
“With car production ceased at Peugeot and a model changeover at Toyota’s facility, it comes as no surprise that we have seen a fall in volume during February,” said Christopher Macgowan, SMMT chief executive. “Exports continue to form the majority of vehicles produced and all indications are that the full year forecast is still on course to achieve greater output than last year.”
Commercial vehicle output of 17,494 in February was down 4%. Output for the year was up 2% to 37,085 units. Of those, 21,456, or almost 58%, have been exported though volume was down 10.4% year to date.
“Although down slightly compared to February 2006, UK commercial vehicle production remains robust and in good shape,” added Macgowan. “Light commercial volumes continue to make up the lion’s share of the output and with the new model Land Rover Defender coming on stream shortly, we anticipate continued strength in this area.”
