In the driving seat

The UK is the most diverse and productive manufacturing location in Europe, as well as as a global centre of excellence for engine development and production. The industry employs 180,000 directly in manufacturing, and eight global vehicle makers have plants here — more than anywhere else in Europe.

Ranging from major volume car makers, van, truck and bus builders, to specialist niche manufacturers, the industry is supported by a sophisticated supply chain which includes many of the world's major component producers, technology providers and design and engineering specialists.

Last year the UK motor industry made over 1.7 million vehicles — with a record volume of over 1.3 million sent for export. Nissan in Sunderland, for example, had a very successful 2007, with the Qashqai model (designed, developed and manufactured in the UK) helping the plant achieve record production of over 350,000 cars — making it the UK's largest car producer and exporter. But that is just one example.