British engine production declines -10.8% in 2021

• UK engine manufacturing down -10.8% in 2021 to just over 1.6 million units.
• Production for domestic and overseas markets falls -3.6% and -15.4%, respectively.
• December output tumbles by more than a quarter to round off another tough year for sector.

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said,

2021 represented another challenging year for UK engine manufacturers with the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic continuing to disrupt output. The global shortage of semiconductors, in particular, hit car and van production and in turn demand for engines. There is hope that the sector can recover in 2022 as vehicle volumes rise again, however, action is needed to combat rising energy costs and supply chain shortages, while long-term we must continue to upskill our manufacturing workforce to produce electrified powertrains.