UK car production shifts up a gear
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Your support makes all the difference.Car production accelerated ahead at the start of the year, it was announced today.
The number of cars produced in the UK last month totalled 110,179 - a rise of 8.9% on the January 2010 figure, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) said.
Commercial vehicle production also rose 8.9% last month to 9,967, with engine manufacturing increasing 12%.
SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt said: "UK automotive manufacturing made a flying start to 2011 despite tough economic conditions.
"The encouraging figures demonstrate ongoing growth in global demand for the high-quality vehicles and engines manufactured in the UK at some of the world's leading sites."
He went on: "Automotive is leading the manufacturing revival, but to ensure this positive trend continues, the Government must prioritise UK manufacturing, through a supportive tax system, plus sustained investment in skills, research and development (R&D) and capital equipment.
"Ahead of the Budget in March, SMMT is urging the Chancellor to provide R&D tax credits for small and large companies, to increase capital allowances and to reflect the sector's importance through the business rates system."
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