UK 2014 car production rises to highest since 2007

[LONDON] British car production rose to its highest level since 2007 last year, up 1.2 per cent to 1.528 million cars, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders said on Friday.

The growth was driven by strong domestic demand, as exports fell slightly, something SMMT Chief Executive Mike Hawes blamed on a weaker than expected recovery in the eurozone and elsewhere.

"More than 7 billion pounds (US$10.5 billion) of investment into UK production facilities has been announced in the past two years, and we are now seeing the effects as new models begin production - with more expected in 2015," Mr Hawes said.

Britain is a major centre for manufacturers such as Jaguar Land Rover, BMW, Nissan, Honda, Toyota and General Motors.

REUTERS