Britain’s car production experienced a downturn in January, falling 8.2% to 65,249 units, according to industry data released Friday by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). The decline was driven by a 10.1% decrease in exports, which totaled 51,396 units during the month.
The figures represent a disappointing start to the year for the UK automotive sector, which continues to navigate complex global trade dynamics. SMMT CEO Mike Hawes emphasized the require for a proactive trade strategy, stating, “It reinforces the need for a forward-looking trade agenda that secures existing preferential access – notably with the biggest market on our doorstep, given protectionist ‘Made in Europe’ proposals – and builds new ones with markets worldwide.” Key export destinations for British automobiles include the European Union, the United States, and China.
Overall vehicle production, encompassing both cars and commercial vehicles, decreased by 13.6% to 67,415 units. The commercial vehicle segment experienced a particularly sharp decline, falling 68.6% to 2,166 units, marking the tenth consecutive monthly drop. This downturn follows a significant restructuring of a major plant, the SMMT reported.
Despite the January slump, the SMMT reaffirmed its independent outlook for overall UK car production to reach approximately 790,000 units in 2026. This projection suggests an anticipated recovery later in the year, though the immediate challenges to export markets remain a concern.