Paul Everitt, chief executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, has outlined the importance of fiscal and political support for the new vehicle market and manufacturing sector whoever wins the next election.

Everitt spoke on the outlook for the UK motor industry in the wake of recession at a dinner this week by professional services firm KPMG.

Providing a short-term industry outlook, Everitt said: “There is no doubt that 2010 will be another tough year for the UK’s automotive industry.

“The latest SMMT forecasts reveal a new car market of 1.8 million, while vans will hold steady at 186,000 in 2010.

“The prospects for UK motor manufacturing are perhaps more positive. The main political parties now recognise that a more balanced economy means less reliance on finance and banking and more active support for industries that design, develop and manufacture goods and services to sell around the world.”

He added that the global automotive market would remain tough and the industry would see “good and bad news on investment and jobs in the months and years ahead”.

Everitt also said the political and economic experience over the last 18 months has only signalled new opportunities for the automotive industry this year.