The Automotive Sector

The automotive industry is a vital part of the UK economy accounting for more than £82 billion turnover and £20.2 billion value added.

With some 186,000 people employed directly in manufacturing and in excess of 856,000 across the wider automotive industry, it accounts for 12.0% of total UK export of goods and invests £3.65 billion each year in automotive R&D.

More than 30 manufacturers build in excess of 70 models of vehicle in the UK supported by 2,500 component providers and some of the world’s most skilled engineers.

A strong UK supply base is fundamental to the future success of the wider automotive industry. The UK is home to over 30 automotive manufacturers, producing cars, vans, trucks, buses and engines – who want to take advantage of increased local sourcing.

18 of the world’s top 20 automotive suppliers operate in the UK and SMMT is committed to driving growth in the supply chain.

UK Automotive Supply Chain

• 78,000 people employed in the UK supply chain
• 41% average UK content in British-built cars – up from 36% since 2011
• 2,500 + automotive suppliers in the UK
• £4.3bn added value generated by UK automotive industry

Data source : SMMT