2011 a strong year for UK automotive industry
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has named 2011 a step-change year for the UK's automotive industry, citing 'unprecedented' levels of international investment and long term commitments to building new and existing vehicles and engines across the country.
Despite the uncertainty within the Eurozone, the organisation believes the prospects for automotive manufacturing remain strong, and maintained that investing in R&D and young people were key to ongoing success.
SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt said: "2011 has been a very significant year for the UK motor industry. We have seen a remarkable series of investment announcements by global vehicle manufacturers with a total of £4billion of investment promised for the UK, securing new model programmes, production facilities and jobs.
"Despite Eurozone uncertainty, these decisions demonstrate real confidence in the future of UK manufacturing and its role within a rebalanced economy."
According to Everitt, UK automotive manufacturing reported positive results this year, with total vehicle and engine production set to end the year more than 5% up on 2010.
Looking ahead five to 10 years, the SMMT believes UK automotive manufacturing could be on course for near-record highs. "New models, long-term commitments, ongoing investment and government recognition of the importance of manufacturing to the UK economy, combine to stand the UK in good stead for the future," it said.
