SMMT statement – welcome to Labour

05 July 2024 #Statements Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive: We congratulate Sir Keir Starmer and the Labour Party on their election success. The new government’s commitment to an industrial strategy and its already published Automotive Sector Plan can boost manufacturing competitiveness, enhance trade relations and support consumers. The industry is fundamental to the achievement of… Continue reading SMMT statement – welcome to Labour

Van market records best first half since 2021 despite June decline

New light commercial vehicle market falls in June, down -4.5%, after record-equalling 17 month growth run ends. Sector records best first six months since 2021, with market up 4.5% on last year as 177,620 new vans, pickups and 4x4s delivered. Battery electric van demand declines for third month this year, down -16.8%, highlighting urgent need… Continue reading Van market records best first half since 2021 despite June decline

New car market hits ‘million motors’ milestone at half year

New car market grows 1.1% in June to reach 179,263 units – and breaks million motors mark at the half year point for first time since 2019. Battery electric cars record highest monthly market share since December 2023, but uptake in year to date remains stable at 16.6%. Industry calls on next government to back… Continue reading New car market hits ‘million motors’ milestone at half year

Commercial vehicle production falls in May

UK commercial vehicle (CV) manufacturing declines -59.3% to 4,400 units in May. Output for domestic and export markets falls -52.2% and -61.9% respectively, but exports remain up in the year to date. Overall year to date volumes dip by -3.2% to 45,439 units, a fall equivalent to 1,492 units. UK commercial vehicle (CV) manufacturing fell… Continue reading Commercial vehicle production falls in May

Car manufacturing dips as factories switch to electric models

27 June 2024 #SMMT News #UK Manufacturing UK car manufacturing output down -11.9% in May as factories continue to retool for an electric mobility future. Almost 70,000 cars made, with output for the UK rising by 9.7% as exports decline by -17.4%. SMMT’s Vision 2035: Ready to Grow shows how output could surpass a million… Continue reading Car manufacturing dips as factories switch to electric models

New members – June 2024

26 June 2024 #SMMT News Find out below who has joined the premier automotive trade association and what they get from membership: SMMT data services Extensive market data providing key information to assist marketing and promotional activity, and future business opportunities. Developing business opportunities SMMT’s targeted events and Automotive Supplier Finder (ASF) service helps facilitate… Continue reading New members – June 2024

Back Automotive and reap £50bn growth

New analysis shows UK automotive sector can fuel £50 billion of green growth over next decade – with the right conditions in place. Smart policies and consumer incentives would help 17 million drivers switch to zero emission motoring by 2035, halving the number of fossil fuel cars in use. UK light vehicle manufacturing could deliver… Continue reading Back Automotive and reap £50bn growth

SMMT Chief Executive Mike Hawes recognised for services to the UK automotive industry

Mike Hawes, Chief Executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), has been awarded an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for services to the automotive industry in the King’s Birthday Honours List. Mike joined SMMT as chief executive in 2013, after a number of years in the automotive sector… Continue reading SMMT Chief Executive Mike Hawes recognised for services to the UK automotive industry

Van market sustains growth but electric uptake must rise faster

17th month of growth in LCV market as volumes rise 1.9%. Growth fuelled by midweight vans as market records best May since record-breaking 2021. Battery electric vehicle uptake rises but market still short of targets. SEE LCV REGISTRATIONS BY BRAND DOWNLOAD PRESS RELEASE AND DATA TABLE The UK new light commercial vehicle market posted its… Continue reading Van market sustains growth but electric uptake must rise faster