The United Kindgom’s (UK) automobile industry produced 56,594 units in June, reporting a decline of 48.2pc from June 2019. From Jan-June, 381,357 cars were produced, down 42.8pc on 2019 which is a deficit of 285,000 units, according to data released by Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) on July 30.
Post-COVID related shutdown, production was gradually ramped up in June but strict social distancing measures and weak demand across global markets continued to curb manufacturing of cars. June fared better than April and May, however, said SMMT.
Domestic market production in the UK declined 63.8pc. Export productions also declined by 45pc. Nine out of ten vehicles accounted for global markets including the European Union, China, South Korea, US and Japan as most of these countries resumed business earlier than UK.
Recovery for car making companies is difficult but automotive sector is unique when it comes to facing technology shifts, fundamental challenges and business uncertainties related to COVID-19, said SMMT Chief Executive. The UK auto body projects an output of 880,000 cars for 2020, 32pc below 2019 production levels.