Exports are the driving force behind rise in UK car production By Scott Reid Published on Friday 20 January 2012 00:00 Record exports have helped drive a near-6 per cent rise in the number of cars built in the UK last year. Industry figures yesterday revealed that a total of just over 1.3 million vehicles were manufactured in 2011, with 83 per cent destined for overseas markets. Trade unions said the findings provided a "glimmer of hope in gloomy times" but analysts have warned about the potential fallout from the continuing eurozone crisis and over-capacity in Europe's car production sector. A breakdown of the data showed exports - mostly for mainland Europe - were up 17 per cent over the year, while production for UK showrooms fell 29 per cent. Among the carmakers posting big increases were Land Rover with production up by a third, and Vauxhall, which enjoyed a 34 per cent rise. In contrast, there was a 30 per cent slide in Honda production, an 11.5 per cent reduction in the number of Minis made, 11.4 per cent fewer Jaguars and 6.5 per cent fewer Toyotas. The numbers can be skewed by the launch of, or lack of, new models. The most-productive factory last year was the Nissan plant in Sunderland, where 480,485 models were built, a 13.5 per cent increase on 2010. The figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) showed that engine production also rose, by 4.9 per cent to 2.5 million units, despite a "modest" fall in December. SMMT chief executive Paul Everitt said: "Vehicle and engine production continues to lead the manufacturing recovery, with increased output and exports taking a record-breaking share." In 2011, vehicle manufacturers renewed their commitment to the UK, securing new model programmes, facilities and jobs for the long term. He added: "It is essential that industry and government continue to work in partnership to maximise the opportunities at all levels of the supply chain and encourage more investment in research and development, skills and plant and machinery." Tony Burke, assistant general secretary at trade union Unite, said: "These car production figures are a glimmer of hope in gloomy times. With the right investment, the right product and most importantly a skilled and dedicated workforce British manufacturing can be a success. Philippa Oldham, head of transport and manufacturing at the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, added: "It is heartening that international car manufacturers such as Nissan, Vauxhall and Honda see the UK as the place to invest."