A man passes cars on a showroom forecourt in west London
A man passes cars on a showroom forecourt in west London November 6, 2008. REUTERS

Car production in August rose by 37 per cent to 77,882 units, of which 73.2 per cent were exported, according to the latest figures issued by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

In the year to date car production increased 41.3 per cent to 812,687, of which 72 per cent were exported.

The number of commercial vehicles produced in August increased 22.1 per cent to 5,885, of which 60.9 per cent were exported.

In the year to date commercial vehicle production rose 41.4 per cent to 79,985, of which 69 per cent were exported.

Engine production in August was up 15.4 per cent to 115,804, of which 63.6 per cent were exported.

In the year to date engine production increased 27.7 per cent to 1,569,966, of which 72 per cent were exported.

Paul Everitt, Chief Executive of the SMMT, said, "UK vehicle and engine production continues to lead a strong manufacturing recovery. The UK is an important part of the global automotive industry, exporting cars, commercial vehicles and engines to markets around the world. There are still significant challenges ahead and government must do all it can to encourage continued international investment in UK based R&D, skills, plant and machinery."