Automotive industry says output soaring

Output last year was up 27.8 per cent, which took it back to pre-recession levels, while the number of vehicles exported was up 31 per cent, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) announced.

Energy use per vehicle produced was down by eight per cent, while manufacturing CO2 emissions were reduced by more than than 10 per cent for each vehicle to leave factories in this country.

Also, last year saw new automotive apprenticeships up nine per cent adding to the 737,000 jobs dependent on the sector.

The society’s chief executive, Paul Everitt, said: “We are making significant steps towards creating a globally competitive UK automotive sector, while keeping an eye on improving our environmental credentials to ensure a strong, long-term future for the industry.

“Manufacturing is vital to a rebalanced economy and cleaner, greener processes will support the transition to a low-carbon future.”

He went on: “Automotive continues to attract major international investment, create high-value jobs and cut its environmental impact but the UK must continue to compete on a global platform to secure future growth.

“We must incentivise private-sector investment in research and development, and training and equipment and ensure our commitment to be a leader in low-carbon manufacturing supports our international competitiveness.”