Car production rose in April by 26.8% to 152,257 units.

Year-to-date production figures were up 15.2% to 574,257 units, according to thelatest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive, said: "The latest UK car production figures have resulted in the best April volumes since 1998.

"Growth was across both home and export markets, with over three-quarters of all cars produced so far this year heading abroad."