UK car production surges 22% in July

Almost 120,000 cars were built in the UK in July, a rise of 22 per cent over the same time a year ago, and the 13th consecutive monthly increase in production, figures yesterday revealed.

A total of 119,882 cars were produced in UK factories last month, taking the year-to-date total to 875,998, an increase of 15 per cent.

There were 9,004 commercial vehicles built, down by 1.3 per cent on a year ago, and 180,109 engines, 1.9 per cent fewer than in July 2011.

Paul Everitt, chief executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, said: “Car manufacturing continued to perform well. While uncertainty in Europe remains a challenge, the £6 billion investment committed to the UK in the last two years delivers long-term growth opportunities.”