UK car production slumps 30% in worst 12 months since 1984  

The UK produced fewer than 1m cars as Covid meant factories were severely disrupted by lockdowns and social distancing measures

UK car production fell 30 per cent last year in the industry’s worst 12 months since 1984.

The UK produced fewer than 1m cars as the pandemic meant factories were severely disrupted by lockdowns and social distancing measures.

Brexit played a role, as a deal went down to the wire. The last time under 1m cars were produced was 2009. But the industry has held off calling for government help, which has helped to sustain sales in France and Germany. 

The industry is the UK’s largest exporter, turning over £78.9billion a year and employing 180,000 people.

Mike Hawes, at the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, said: ‘These figures are the worst in a generation. 

The industry faces 2021 with more optimism, however, with a vaccine being rolled out and clarity on how we trade with Europe, our biggest market.’

There was optimism though as electric cars continued to be rolled out in 2020.