- The latest statistics from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) show that UK car production has increased for six months in a row, with car manufacturing rising 14.6% from February last year.
- Of the 79,907 UK-manufactured cars last month, 29,038 consisted of battery electric, plug-in hybrid, and hybrid models.
- This figure is up 6% on February 2023’s manufacturing statistics for EVs.
UK EV production continues to grow
February 2024 was a successful month for the whole of the country’s automotive industry, with sixth months of consecutive growth, and the best performing February since 2021, when 105,008 cars were produced.
SMMT highlighted the figure of 67.3% of EV models built in February being exported as a crucial indicator that the UK needs to expand its battery manufacturing and EV supply chain expertise, as OEMs continue to switch their portfolio over to electric models. That’s looking ever more promising, however, with another battery gigafactory set to open in the country, contributing alongside facilities such as Tata’s planned Somerset site. The association noted that with manufacturers ending long-running models to make way for all-electric alternatives, these figures could change significantly in the next few months.
SMMT’s Chief Executive, Mike Hawes, commented:
“Another month of growth for UK car production is welcome news, reflecting strong demand at home and around the world for the latest British-built cars. The industry is transitioning from internal combustion engine cars to electrified vehicles, building on the massive investment commitments made last year. The UK industry faces stiff competition, however, as global competitors seek to secure new models and technologies so a commitment to our industrial competitiveness, from all political parties in this likely election year, must be maintained.”
