Parts Shortages Take Toll on U.K. Production

The effects of the Japanese earthquake and tsunami washed ashore in the U.K. in April with production of vehicles and engines driven lower.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders says car output fell 12.2% to 86,306 units in April for a 4-month total up 7% to 443,536 units.

Commercial-vehicle production declined 19.9% to 8,633 units for the month and was down 5.6% over the year’s first four months to 40,790.

Engine production slipped 4.7% in April to 190,131 units, but remained up 6% over the first four months at 875,362.

SMMT CEO Paul Everitt says April’s vehicle and engine production figures reflect the global production challenges resulting from the Japanese earthquake.

“Output was down across the car, commercial vehicle and engine sectors as parts shortages interrupted regular manufacturing schedules,” he says in a statement.

“All manufacturers are working hard to overcome supply shortages and we expect any downturn to be short lived. The outlook for the U.K. motor industry is extremely good and this should generate new opportunities for vehicle manufacturers and suppliers.”