NAA Update: UK automotive production showing welcome signs of stability
UK automotive production is showing welcome signs of stability as the UK registers its two‑millionth EV.
Welcome to this month’s newsletter, and I hope you are all keeping well.
I want to begin by talking about UK automotive production, which is showing welcome signs of stability, with recent output “reflecting the industry’s underlying resilience” despite global pressures. New measures such as the British Industry Competitiveness Scheme promise to reduce energy costs and strengthen the UK’s position as an attractive manufacturing base.
Electric vehicle progress remains a major bright spot. The UK has now registered its two‑millionth EV, supported by nearly 170 models on the market and strong April growth. Used EV sales are also rising rapidly, helped by improving affordability and consumer interest. Regulatory improvements, such as streamlined MOT rules for electric vans, are making zero‑emission ownership more accessible.
Innovation continues to accelerate, with advances in connected and automated mobility, including a new UK–Wayve partnership. Meanwhile, stabilising exports and renewed growth in key European markets signal improving trade conditions.
Overall, the sector is demonstrating adaptability, momentum and strong long‑term potential.
For a shining example of this, don’t miss the write-up in the Independent, featuring NAA Member, Warwick Acoustics, who have developed a brand new audio system for the Range Rover SV Ultra, featuring world-first electrostatic audio technology.
Elsewhere, businesses across the UK are being urged to strengthen their cyber defences, as the government takes action to protect the economy and essential services people rely on every day from fast-evolving cyber threats.
As part of a wider push to shore up the UK’s cyber defences, ministers are urging organisations across the economy to boost their resilience by signing up to a Cyber Resilience Pledge.
The pledge, launching later this year, sets out three concrete actions organisations can take to improve their cyber security:
• making cyber security a board-level responsibility
• signing up to the National Cyber Security Centre’s free Early Warning Service
• require Cyber Essentials certification across their supply chains – the UK government-backed cyber security standard that blocks the most common cyber threats.
Staying on the theme of Cyber Essentials, we are pleased to announce that the NAA has now gained Cyber Essentials certification.
Moving on to the membership side, we would like to welcome one new member:
Quantum Digital – an experienced creative agency specialising in animation, film and interactive digital solutions, for the manufacturing, automotive and engineering sectors.
We are looking forward to working Quantum Digital and welcoming them to our ongoing networking event programme during the course of this year.
Finally, as mentioned last month, the NAA Business Awards are now OPEN. The closing date for award entry is July 10. Full details can be found on our website.
Paul Jones
NAA CEO
