UK vehicle production decline hits record low in April 2025: SMMT
From Yahoo Finance: 2025-05-30 10:22:00
In April 2025, UK car and commercial vehicle production decreased by 15.8%, with 59,203 units manufactured, the lowest April output since 1952. Car production dropped by 8.6% to 56,534 units, impacted by timing, model changes, and reduced exports. Commercial vehicle sector declined by 68.6% to 2,669 units due to plant closure and demand normalization after pandemic growth.
Car exports saw a 10.1% drop, with the EU and US markets declining by 19.1% and 2.7%. EU remained the largest export destination for UK car exports, receiving over half, while the US accounted for 16.5%. Exports to China and Turkey increased by 44% and 31.2%.
Commercial vehicle exports fell by 75.8%, with over half sent abroad. EU was the primary export market, accounting for 84.9% despite a 78.9% reduction in shipments. Domestic commercial vehicle output also fell by 54.6%.
SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes called for urgent action to boost domestic demand and international competitiveness in the automotive manufacturing sector. The industry awaits the government’s industrial strategy to enhance competitiveness and secure investment for sustainable growth. The SMMT reported a 49.8% surge in public service vehicle registrations in Q1 2025, marking continuous growth.
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