UK car production plummets 30.1% in worst November since 1980

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) - UK car production dropped 30.1% in November, according to the latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) on Friday.

A total of 64,216 cars were produced during the month, 27,711 fewer than in November 2023. This marks the ninth consecutive month of falling output and the sector’s worst performance for November since 1980.

The decline stems from multiple challenges, including strategic product shifts, weakened demand in key global markets, and adjustments to production schedules.

Additionally, comparisons to November 2023 are skewed, as output during that period was bolstered by a recovery from COVID-related supply chain disruptions.

As UK car makers transition to electric vehicle (EV) production, significant retooling efforts have impacted manufacturing output.

The shift has resulted in production cuts across all major manufacturers.

While November saw the production of 19,165 battery electric, plug-in hybrid, and hybrid electric cars, this figure represents a sharp 45.5% decline compared to the same month last year.

Despite the challenges, electrified vehicles now account for nearly a third (29.8%) of total production.

From January to November, over a quarter of a million electrified vehicles were manufactured in the UK. However, this figure is down 19.7% year-on-year, largely due to model switchovers at key plants.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, described the figures as "offering little Christmas cheer for the sector."

“With billions of pounds committed to new technologies, new models, and production tooling, the industry is facing significant strain,” Hawes said.

“The government can play a critical role by supporting consumers in the transition to electric vehicles, fast-tracking its Industrial Strategy for advanced manufacturing, and urgently reviewing market regulations that are exacerbating the sector’s challenges,” he added.