UK Car Production Falls 17.2% Year-on-Year in February as Weak Exports Intensify Industry Pressure

UK car production in February plummeted by 17.2% year-on-year to 68,061 units, dragged down by weak exports. Passenger car exports fell by 11.5% to 53,140 units, while commercial vehicle exports plunged dramatically by 65.1% to just 1,306 units. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) warned that the industry is already under severe pressure, and newly emerging geopolitical tensions globally could further disrupt supply chains. SMMT Chief Executive Mike Hawes described the dual decline in production and exports as "deeply concerning." The association also criticized the European Commission's proposed Industrial Acceleration Act, arguing it would discriminate against UK-made vehicles and components, jeopardizing the nearly £70 billion annual UK-EU automotive trade relationship.