May saw UK car manufacturing continue to outperform levels seen before the recession.
It's always encouraging as car lovers to learn that the manufacturing industry in the UK is doing well, so the latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) should be most welcome.
According to the research, despite May witnessing a dip in car manufacturing, it continued to outperform pre-recession levels, with output remaining fairly stable across the first five months of this year.
This is good news for all of us who love nothing more than treating ourselves to a new motor now and then – and suggests some new releases could be in the pipeline among the major brands this year.
Indeed, exciting cars making their way onto the road this year include the likes of the Jaguar F-Type, the BMW Z4, the Alfa Romeo 4C, the Ford Fiesta ST and the Subaru Forester.
The SMMT findings revealed a sustained growth in the home market, which has played a key role in helping production rises or more than one-quarter during the first five months of 2013.
Mike Baunton, interim chief executive at SMMT – which is one of the largest trade associations in the UK – noted UK car manufacturing was able to come in at above 2007 levels in May despite the fact that the month saw weak European demand leading to a fall in output.
Mr Baunton stated: "Production levels are holding firm for the year so far, testament to the appeal of UK-built products around the world and significant growth in volumes built for the home market."
He explained things are continuing to look rosy for car manufacturing in the long-term, with high-level investment by global automotive companies having an important part to play in this.
Indeed, there is plenty of optimism for the industry going forward, even though it will be impacted in the short-term due to the economic challenges coming in from abroad.
Those of you checking out the latest new car deals with a view to driving away in a brand new vehicle may therefore find there is no time like the present to buy that motor you have always dreamed of.
Why not have a look at the cars currently on the market and see if any catch your eye? There's likely to be a model for everyone, with motors continuously brought out in order to suit all different needs.
Are you after a car to transport your family around comfortably? Or perhaps you're looking for a real head-turner that will grab the attention of all you speed past? Whatever your preference, the condition of the market at present could make now the right time to make your move.
What's more, the industry is performing admirably at a time when commercial vehicle (CV) manufacturers are finding times tough. The SMMT research revealed output fell by 20 per cent in March.
Nigel Base, CV manager at SMMT, stated: "2013 is going to be a hard year for the UK's CV manufacturers, but there are pockets of positivity with some areas of the industry experiencing growth as operators take advantage of the wide range of CVs built in the UK."
Posted by Fred Mason