The United Kingdom has shipped a total of 123,119 cars in 2016, as per the figures published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) today. This means export demand rose by 10.5% to take volumes past one million in the first three-quarters for the first time on record.

Meanwhile, UK car production in September increased by 0.9% with 159,726 vehicles manufactured. The overseas demand increased by 5% year-on-year, offsetting a -10.6% decline in production for the home market.

The overall year-to-date output increased 10.5% to 1,292,453 units, as production for global markets grew for a 14th consecutive month.

Commenting on the September performance, Mike Hawes, Chief Executive, SMMT, said, “British-built cars are in demand across the world as demonstrated by the double-digit growth in exports this year, resulting in more than a million cars produced for international markets. The vast majority of cars manufactured here in the UK are destined for abroad and future growth will depend on securing our international competitiveness and the barrier-free access to major global markets that has enabled UK Automotive to thrive.”

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