Britain's vehicle production rebounded sharply in September, rising 36.3% year on year to 74,031 units, according to figures published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) on Thursday 29 October. Car production climbed 38.6% to 70,831 units, the strongest September for UK car manufacturing since 2023 and the strongest overall growth rate since August 2022. The SMMT said the increase largely reflects comparison with a year earlier, when output was disrupted by a cyber incident at Britain's largest automotive employer.

Exports recover, but year still down

Exports also recovered. The European Union remained the largest destination, taking 57.5% of car shipments, with exports to the bloc up 12.7% year on year. Shipments to the United States rose 234.8% and shipments to China increased 357.7%, although both rose from a low base. The monthly rebound did not erase the year's weaker trend: total car and commercial vehicle production in the first nine months of 2026 fell 3% year on year to 564,537 units.

Industry warns recovery is fragile

SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes said: "September's rebound is welcome, but comparison with last year's disruption masks the pressures on UK manufacturing." The industry body warned that mandate targets are running ahead of demand and draining resources needed by British factories and jobs. It also flagged the European Union's proposed "Made in EU" measures and tougher post-Brexit rules of origin due from 2027. An independent forecast cited by the SMMT expects UK light vehicle production to fall 2.3% to 731,000 units this year before recovering to 752,000 units in 2027 as new models, mostly electric vehicles, enter production.

Sources: Reuters, Trading Economics.