SMMT News: UK Automotive Accelerates Economic Growth And Environmental Performance
2012 was an exceptional year for UK automotive, with industry generating its highest ever turnover, increasing production and export volumes and attracting further investment, all while continuing to reduce the environmental impact of its products and processes.
These are just some of the findings outlined in a comprehensive report published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), demonstrating the significant progress industry has made against a series of economic, environmental and social performance indicators.
Commenting on the 14th Automotive Sustainability Report, SMMT’s Interim Chief Executive, Mike Baunton said, “UK automotive continues to support the country’s economic recovery, with rising turnover, increased manufacturing output and record export volumes providing further proof of industry’s ability to compete on a global scale.
“It is clear that our future is bright and that the environmentally-focussed approach that vehicle manufacturers have taken to improve manufacturing processes and products will support our continued economic success. However to capitalise on the sector’s potential it is vital that government uses its upcoming Automotive Sector Strategy to commit to measures that will strengthen the automotive supply chain and drive further R&D activity.”
Industry’s latest Automotive Sustainability Report is more in-depth than ever before and for the first time includes wide-ranging analysis of the UK’s expanding automotive supply chain. For every vehicle that is produced, more than 800,000 separate components and sub-components are needed, so ensuring that UK suppliers can access that demand is fundamental to the future prosperity whole industry.
The report also shows that employment in automotive manufacturing rose 2% to 146,000 in 2012, reflecting the recovery in manufacturing volumes and recent investment announcements. Attracting new talent and developing long-term training plans for current staff is at the heart of the UK motor industry’s future plans. Through SMMT and the Automotive Council, industry is working hard to address skills gaps throughout the sector to maintain our global competitiveness, particularly in roles that support new technology development.
To access SMMT’s 14th Automotive Sustainability Report, visit www.smmt.co.uk/sustainability. To read the latest announcements on investment, plant expansion, new vehicle models and employment within the UK’s automotive sector, go to www.smmt.co.uk/investment
