SMMT figures indicate record exports for UK car makers

According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), total vehicle output increased eight per cent last year to 1.58 million units, the highest level since 2008.

Similarly, car output rose nine per cent in 2012 to 1.46 million units, ending the year with a six per cent rise in December.

Paul Everitt, chief executive at the SMMT, said: ‘2012 was a very good year for UK car production with record levels of exports and volumes at their highest since 2008.

‘The outlook for 2013 remains positive with demand in many faster-growing global markets offsetting the continued weakness in European economies.’

Commenting on the announcement, John Leech, UK head of automotive at KPMG, said: ‘News that UK car production set an all-time export record is clearly welcome and has essentially been driven by great performances at both Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) and Nissan.

‘JLR’s Range Rover is the vehicle that best meets the consumer aspirations of the fast-growing middle class in emerging markets, especially China, while Nissan’s Qashqai kick-started the fast-growing urban crossover vehicle segment.