British car production up more than 13% in February, SMMT reveals

The number of cars built in Britain last month increased by more than 13%, continuing the industry's "impressive" growth.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) reported that almost 147,000 cars were constructed in February, around 17,000 more than in the same month last year, taking the total for the year to 284,507.

Over 100,000 of the cars were for export, with 42,000 for the home market, both well up on the same month a year ago.

Car production so far this year is up by 10% compared with the same period in 2015.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: "The UK automotive industry's impressive growth continued into February, with demand from both domestic and overseas customers showing no signs of slowing.

"The outlook for the sector is bright, but much will depend on global political and economic conditions in the months and years to come."

Fewer than 60,000 cars were built in February 2009, just after the recession.