The number of cars built for export in January increased by 4.1% to 97,870, which was 82.7% of the UK’s total output. This is mainly due rising demand in key Asian and European import markets for new models from UK-based manufacturers.
There was a sharp drop in domestic production, which made this the worst January for UK car production in nine years.
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders chief said: “Exports are the bedrock for UK car manufacturing so a rise in January exports is welcome following recent declining demand in overseas markets.”