The number of cars built in the UK in April rose 5.2% on the same month last year.

UK car manufacturing was given a boost in April as output rose by 5.2% from April 2017 to 127,952 units, putting the brakes on a production downturn that has been in motion all year.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said, “While April’s growth isn’t altogether surprising given the significant decline in output this time last year, it is good to see earlier planned investment into new models delivering results. “However, given such investment was made on the basis of the free and frictionless trade afforded by our EU membership, the ability of UK plants to attract the next wave of new models and drive future growth depends upon maintaining these competitive conditions after Brexit. “That’s why it is critical that government acts to safeguard our participation in the EU customs union and single market.”