Czech Republic’s car production in January was reported at 104,576 units, down 11.7pc from the prior year period. This is the lowest January levels recorded since 2014.
The pandemic continues to affect the automotive sector in the new year, according to data released by the country’s auto body, Automotive Industry Association (AutoSAP) on Feb 18.
Skoda Auto produced 71,716 units, down 5pc from the prior year period; Hyundai produced 18,450 cars at Nosovice unit, down 12.6pc and 14,410 units at Cologne plant, down 31.8pc while Toyota’s output dropped 32pc. About 3,493 units were electric, which is just 3.3pc of the total car production. Battery electric cars’ production stood at 1,475 units, dominated by Hyundai at 1,310 units and Skoda at 165 units.
Bus production segment recorded a dip of 21pc to 297 units in January compared to January 2020. Motorcycle production increased to 76 units from 21 produced in January last year.
“The automotive industry continues to be under enormous pressure,” saidZdeněk Petzl , CEO of the association. He also addressed the general uncertainty, supply disruptions and a significant rise in material prices. In many other countries, just like in the Czech Republic, protective measures are restricting retail trade including car sales.