UK car manufacturing slipped in
October for the first time in 14 months amid slower domestic demand,
according to the industry's trade body.
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders said production dipped 1% last month against October last year, to 151,795 units.
However, exports rose for the 15th month in a row, with 122,765 cars built for overseas markets, a 1.7% rise.
This offset a 10.9% fall in production for the home market.
Exports accounted for 80.9% of UK production in October.
The
SMMT said the UK motor industry remained strong, with production up by
9.2% so far this year, and more than 1.4 million vehicles produced.
SMMT
chief executive Mike Hawes said: "October's figures underline the
export-led nature of the industry, with eight out of 10 cars built for
overseas customers.
"Despite model changes which have ended the
consistent growth pattern of the past year or so, we are still on track
for a record number of exports."
Concern about the UK car
industry's position in a post-Brexit world has prompted executives to
urge the government to help shield the sector from any deterioration in
trade relations.
Government promises of "support and assurances"
to Nissan helped persuade the Japanese carmaker to build both the new
Qashqai and the X-Trail SUV at its Sunderland plant.
Mr Hawes said
in a statement on Thursday: "Given this dependence on global trade, it
is crucial that British-built cars remain attractive to international
buyers and exports are not subject to additional tariffs, costs and
other barriers to successful trade.
"It is also essential
government ensures there is economic stability and a competitive
business environment to ensure we continue to attract the global
investment that is behind this performance."
BBC