British car production drops in September

The number of cars manufactured in Britain fell almost six percent in September, but still remained increasing in 2012, industry data showed on Thursday. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) said car production dropped 5.8 percent to 128,200 units in September compared with the same month last year, but remained up 10.2 percent in the year so far to 1.08 million units. "Declining demand for cars and vans across the major European markets impacted Britain's vehicle and engine production in September," said Paul Everitt, SMMT Chief Executive. The SMMT figures show that total vehicle production, covering both cars and commercial vehicles, in the year so far increased 8.7 percent to 1.65 million units, but the monthly output fell by seven percent in September to 137,800 units. "The strong demand for British products outside Europe and the investment committed by major vehicle manufacturers will secure future growth, although the coming months will be challenging for companies at all levels in the supply chain," Everitt said. Everitt urged European governments to focus on securing financial stability and economic growth or they risk long-term damage to key industries. According to the SMMT, Britain exported 102,360 cars in September, down 8.9 percent year on year, adding the total car exports to 888,800 units, rising 9.5 percent. Britain's engine production dropped 12.8 percent in September, with January-September levels down 0.4 percent, said the SMMT.