Industry, government and consumers needed behind the wheel
The UK is blessed with one of the world’s most diverse automotive industries and few auto brands are more famous globally than our quintessentially British small volume manufacturers (SVMs). They may be small volume but their value is high, contributing an annual £5.5bn to UK plc, driving innovation, and directly employing 15,000 people in highly skilled, well-paid roles.
SMMT’s latest report shines a light on this crucial sector, and we were delighted to launch it at a special event at the historic Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Quad in Westminster this week, hosted by FCDO Minister Catherine West MP and joined by members, MPs and officials. Amid multiple geopolitical headwinds, engagement such as this is essential as we must work closely with policymakers to ensure our SVMs do not just survive but thrive as a successful sector will deliver the economic growth, jobs and exports every government craves.
Our collaborative relationship was also evident this week with a new package of measures to accelerate automated vehicle rollout, including small-scale passenger pilot projects, without safety drivers, slated for spring 2026. This will encourage technology developers and their partners to begin designing and implementing services that meet public needs, providing competitive advantages for UK businesses with the potential to save lives, boost employment and improve road safety.
Competitive automotive conditions enable our long-term growth and this week’s Spending Review offered some encouragement, with some support for EVs and charging rollout. However, more substantial action is necessary if the UK’s world-leading net zero targets are to be met. We recognise the pressure on the public purse and the need to divert funding, particularly to defence, but without market-making interventions, the pace of the transition may need to be reviewed.
Government has already made great efforts to support our industry in the face of tough global challenges and these will be amongst the topics of discussion at SMMT’s International Automotive Summit on London on the 24th of June. There is now less than two weeks to go so find out more and book your place here.