'Solid start' for car manufacturers

CAR PRODUCTION has made a steady start in 2014, according to the latest figures.

A total of 128,620 cars were produced in the UK last month - just 0.3% down on the January 2013 figure, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) said.

SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes said: "There has been a solid start to 2014, matching the strength of January last year.

"We expect domestic car output to accelerate throughout 2014 as new model introductions reach full volume.

"Looking further ahead, we anticipate further growth as investments by some of the world's biggest automotive brands become reality, creating more jobs and huge opportunities for UK-based suppliers."

Cars made for the home market last month totalled 25,239 - a 6.2% fall on January 2013. But cars produced for export grew 1.2% in January 2014 to 103,381.

By Peter Woodman, Press Association