Production up 9.1 per cent in 2002

Car production rose 9.1 per cent in 2002, to 1,628,020 units, according to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics.The ONS says the rise was fuelled by a 17.1 per cent jump in exports, representing more than 150,000 additional cars, compared to 2001.

December output fell by 8.1 per cent reflecting a slowdown in output for the domestic market.

Commenting on car production last year, SMMT chief executive Christopher Macgowan says: “After a relatively weak 2001, it was encouraging to see output rise above 1.6 million units again last year. Britain is still a major player in the production league with eight key car manufacturing sites and a host of specialist sports car makers. No other country in Europe can boast such depth and diversity.”

December commercial vehicle production was up 2.8 per cent and in the last quarter of 2002 CV output rose 15.7 per cent.