UK car production plunged 27.1% in September 2025, totaling just 51,090 units, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). The sharp decline is attributed to a cyberattack on a major manufacturer and ongoing restructuring across commercial vehicle plants, raising concerns about industry resilience.
The UK’s automotive industry witnessed a steep drop in car production last month, with output falling to 51,090 units—a 27.1% year-on-year decline. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) cited a cyberattack and plant restructuring as key contributors to the downturn, marking one of the sector’s most challenging months in recent years.
Important points:
- Vehicle output fell 35.9% in September due to a cyber incident at a major manufacturer, halting production temporarily.
- Commercial vehicle volumes also declined, driven by ongoing plant restructuring.
- The drop comes amid broader forecasts of a 15% decline in UK auto production for 2025, though recovery is expected in 2026.
- Industry leaders are urging the government to revise fiscal policies and reverse the end of Employee Car Ownership Schemes (ECOS), warning of a £1 billion impact on the industrial base.
Sources: SMMT News, ETAuto.