The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) said UK car production rose 2.7% YoY in May to 51,178 units, ending four months of decline and driven by an 83.1% jump in exports to the US. Passenger car output was up 3.2% YoY at 49,249 units; commercial vehicle production fell 7.6% to 1,929. Exports to the EU and China slipped 5.2% and 14.3% respectively. SMMT warned high energy costs, trade risks and weak EV demand continue to threaten competitiveness; CEO Mike Hawes said manufacturers ha

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) said UK car production rose 2.7% YoY in May to 51,178 units, ending four months of decline and driven by an 83.1% jump in exports to the US. Passenger car output was up 3.2% YoY at 49,249 units; commercial vehicle production fell 7.6% to 1,929. Exports to the EU and China slipped 5.2% and 14.3% respectively. SMMT warned high energy costs, trade risks and weak EV demand continue to threaten competitiveness; CEO Mike Hawes said manufacturers have invested billions in zero‑emission technology but weak underlying demand and rising compliance costs risk competitiveness, jobs and future investment. Total UK car production for Jan–May was down 8.7% YoY at 317,779 units.