UK car production fell by 25.1% in October, the lowest level since 1991.

Commercial vehicle production remains up over the year, but down 41% in the month.

The figures come from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), which is urging the government to support UK manufacturing and to restore confidence in the market.

Paul Everitt, SMMT, chief executive, said: “The October production figures reflect the rapid reduction in global demand for motor vehicles and we expect to see further reductions in factory output in November and December.

“The figures are evidence of the scale of the challenge facing the industry and underline the need for prompt action in next week’s Pre-Budget report to assist the sector during this difficult period.”