Car production rose by 26.1% in February to 145,823 units compared to the same period last year.

The amount of cars produced year-to-date also increased, rising by 22.8% to 294,467 units, according to the latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive, said: "Last month was the best UK car production total for a February since 2002.

"Impressively, exports hit a record volume of 1.228 million units. A series of recent investments at a number of major car and engine plants, demonstrates the competitiveness of the UK automotive industry."

Car production