UK production of new cars fell for a 12th consecutive month in February, according to the latest data from industry body the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
A total of 73,814 cars left factories across the UK last month, down 7.6% compared with the number produced in February 2024.
The SMMT cited “soft markets at home and overseas" as a contributing factor in the decline. Production for the domestic market was down by 33.3% year on year to 13,780 units. Meanwhile, exports were up by 1.3% to 60,034 cars. The EU was the top market for UK-built cars, accounting for 53.5% of all exports.
The SMMT also attributed the drop to model changeovers and factory restructuring. Examples include Jaguar, which ended production of the F-Pace and XF at Castle Bromwich in February 2024 ahead of its upmarket relaunch in 2026. Meanwhile, Nissan launched facelifts of the Sunderland-built Juke and Qashqai, and also discontinued the Mk2 Leaf to prepare for the arrival of the new model later this year.
Output of electric cars, plug-in hybrids and regular hybrids dipped by 5.6% to a combined 27,398 units.
In response to the figures – particularly with regard to EVs – SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes called for greater support from the government in "worrying times for UK vehicle makers”.
“The market transition [to electric cars] is not keeping pace with ambition,” he said, “and while the industry can deliver growth – and green growth at that – it needs policies to deliver that reality.”
He added: “It was disappointing, therefore, to hear a Spring Statement [yesterday] that did nothing to alleviate the pressure on manufacturers and, moreover, confirms the introduction next month of additional fiscal measures which will actually dissuade consumers from investing.
“Without substantive regulatory easements, our manufacturing viability remains at risk and the UK’s transition to zero-emission mobility under threat.”
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