UK car manufacturing hits 44-year low in November, industry data shows

UK CAR manufacturing hit its lowest November output since 1980, as the industry grapples with the shift to zero-emission vehicles and rising costs, according to data released on Friday (Dec 20) by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

Factory lines produced 64,216 units in November, a 30.1 per cent drop from the previous year.

“While a decline was to be expected given the extensive changes underway at many plants, manufacturing is under pressure at home and abroad, with billions of pounds committed to new technologies, new models and new production tooling,” said Mike Hawes, chief executive of SMMT.

Despite the global auto sector’s shift towards electrification, production of battery electric, plug-in hybrid and hybrid electric cars fell 45.5 per cent to 19,165 units in November, representing almost a third of total output.

SMMT also reiterated for the government to review the ‘ZEV mandate’ regulation, which could see carmakers face nearly £6 billion (S$10 billion) in discounts and compliance costs. REUTERS