UK auto manufacturing declines in January amid weakening export demand

Britain’s car output fell 8.2 per cent in January to 65,249 units as exports weakened in key overseas markets, industry figures showed on Friday. Shipments abroad dropped 10.1 per cent to 51,396 units, marking a slow start to the year. The European Union, the United States and China remain the largest destinations for UK-built cars.

Total vehicle production, including commercial models, declined 13.6 per cent to 67,415 units, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders. Commercial vehicle output fell 68.6 per cent to 2,166 units, extending a downturn to a tenth month after a major plant restructuring.

Mike Hawes, chief executive of the industry body, said the figures underscored the need for a trade strategy that protects existing preferential access, particularly with the European market, and opens new opportunities globally. The SMMT said its latest independent forecast continues to project overall UK car production of about 790,000 units in 2026.