LONDON, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- Britain's vehicle production fell sharply in January amid weak global demand, industry data showed on Friday.
According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), total output declined 13.6 percent year on year to 67,415 units -- 65,249 cars and 2,166 commercial vehicles.
Car production dropped 8.2 percent from a year ago, while commercial vehicle (CV) output plunged 68.6 percent, marking the 10th consecutive month of decline following major plant restructuring.
Exports were the main drag on performance. Production for overseas markets accounted for 77.8 percent of total output, with the European Union (EU) remaining the top destination, SMMT said.
The United States was the second-largest importer of British-built cars, accounting for 14.1 percent of exports, followed by Japan and China. While exports to the EU rose 7.8 percent, shipments to other major markets recorded double-digit declines.
Electrified vehicle production, including battery electric, plug-in hybrid and hybrid models, fell 10.6 percent to 26,854 units in January, but still accounted for 41.2 percent of total car output.
Despite the weak start, the industry expects volumes to recover later this year as next-generation electric vehicle models enter production.
The latest independent outlook cited by SMMT forecasts overall car production to rise by more than 10 percent to around 790,000 units in 2026, with combined car and light CV output projected to reach about 824,000 units.
Mike Hawes, chief executive of SMMT, described the start to the year as disappointing for the British automotive sector.
"It underscores the importance of a forward-looking trade agenda that preserves existing preferential market access -- particularly with the EU amid 'Made in Europe' proposals -- while expanding trade opportunities globally," he said.
He added that this should be accompanied by more competitive conditions for British manufacturing, including lower energy costs, a resilient domestic market and stronger support for its supply chain. ■