SMMT reports on a strong year for the UK automotive industry

Based on the levels of international investment in the UK and long-term commitments to building new and existing vehicles and engines across the country, the prospects for automotive manufacturing are claimed to be strong.

The SMMT said that, through 2011, vehicle manufacturers have committed in excess of £4bn to projects in the UK, from the development of low-carbon technologies to the introduction of all-new models, including Aston Martin’s Cygnet city car.

Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive, said: ‘2011 has been a very significant year for the UK motor industry. We have seen a remarkable series of investment announcements by global vehicle manufacturers, with a total of £4bn of investment promised for the UK, securing new model programmes, production facilities and jobs.

‘Despite the uncertainty within the eurozone, these decisions demonstrate real confidence in the future of UK manufacturing and its role within a rebalanced economy.’

In a statement, the SMMT said that in 2011 UK automotive manufacturing reported positive results with total vehicle and engine production set to end the year more than five per cent up on 2010.