According to the latest report for the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), UK car manufacturing reported minor growth in September, with production rising by 0.9%.

Associates checking the bodyshell of a five-door MINI at Plant Oxford.

Exports rose 5.0% to reach 123,119 units, offsetting a -10.6% decline in production for the home market.

Overall, year-to-date output increased 10.5% to 1,292,453 units, as production for global markets grew for a 14th consecutive month. Export demand rose by 10.5% to take volumes past one million in the first three quarters for the first time on record.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, commented: “British-built cars are in demand across the world as demonstrated by the double digit growth in exports this year, resulting in more than a million cars produced for international markets.

“The vast majority of cars manufactured here in the UK are destined for abroad and future growth will depend on securing our international competitiveness and the barrier-free access to major global markets.”

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