Car production hit lowest September level since 1995, figures show

Car production fell to its lowest September level for 25 years, new figures show.

Just over 114,732 vehicles rolled off factory lines in September, down by 5.0% on the same month in 2019, said the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

This was the worst September performance since 1995.

Car-makers continued to wrestle with the uncertain economic and political environment combined with the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on global market conditions, said the SMMT.

Production for UK buyers rose by 14.5% in the month to 27,199 cars, while exports declined by 9.7% with 87,533 units produced.

Car production is down by 35.9% so far this year, representing a loss of 354,818 units, the figures showed.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, welcomed the resumption of Brexit negotiations and called for both sides to prioritise the automotive sector.

He said: “These figures are yet more grim reading for UK automotive as coronavirus continues to wreak havoc both at home and in key overseas markets.

“With the end of transition now just 63 days away, the fact that both sides are back around the table is a relief but we need negotiators to agree a deal urgently, one that prioritises automotive, enhances innovation and supports the industry in addressing the global threat of climate change.

“With production already strained, the additional blow of no deal would be devastating for the sector, its workers and their families.”