UK vehicle production fell -11.6% in July to 63,655 units manufacturers under ‘intense pressure’ according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
The decline reflects weaker exports, down -15.9% to 47,377 units, as well as earlier scheduling of routine summer maintenance shutdowns at some plants.
Car production declined -10.6% to 61,767 units as a 9.3% rise in output for UK buyers failed to offset a -15.8% fall in exports.
The output of fully electric and hybrid models recording the first monthly increase of the year, up 6.8% to 25,678 units.
Electrified models accounted for more than four in 10 cars built in July, up from around three in 10 a year ago.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “July’s figures underline the intense pressure under which UK vehicle manufacturers are currently operating.
“Although the negative performance is exacerbated by shutdown calendarisation and model changeovers, it is being compounded by weaker overseas demand and fierce global competition.
“The rise in electrified vehicle production is encouraging, but long-term success depends on making the UK a more competitive place to make and sell vehicles.
“Meaningful and urgent reform of the ZEV Mandate, reduction of the UK’s sky-high energy costs and negotiations to safeguard free and fair trade with our largest and closest export market are essential to put UK automotive manufacturing back on a path to growth.”
