### UK Automotive Industry Faces Historic Decline as Production Hits 70-Year Low The UK automotive sector is experiencing a significant downturn, with vehicle production plummeting to its lowest level since 1952. In April 2025, car and commercial vehicle output fell by **15.8%**, totaling just **59,203 units**. This decline is attributed to several factors, including a late Easter holiday, a shift towards electric vehicles (EVs), and ongoing trade challenges. The industry is now looking towards new trade agreements to stimulate growth and recovery in the face of these challenges [https://www.automotiveworld.com/news/uk-output-hits-70-year-low-in-april]. ### Breakdown of the Current Situation in the UK Automotive Sector 1. **Production Decline**: - Vehicle manufacturing in the UK has seen a **15% drop** in April, marking the lowest output for the month since 1952 [https://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/cars/article-14760813/Car-factories-UK-recorded-lowest-output-70-years-did-production-plunge-April.html]. 2. **Economic Factors**: - The decline is influenced by sluggish export demand, the timing of Easter, and the transition to EVs, compounded by tariffs and global economic pressures [https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/business/uks-car-output-drops-in-april-sees-worst-start-to-year-since-2009/articleshow/121484944.cms]. 3. **Historical Context**: - This downturn caps off the sector's slowest start to a year since 2009, with the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) reporting that the current figures are the worst since the pandemic's impact in 2020 [https://www.insidermedia.com/news/midlandsyorkshire/aprils-decline-in-vehicle-production-caps-off-the-sectors-slowest-start-since-2009]. ### Supporting Data on UK Vehicle Production - **April 2025 Production Figures**: - Total units produced: **59,203** - Percentage decline from previous year: **15.8%** - Historical comparison: Lowest output for April since **1952**, excluding pandemic-related disruptions [https://www.automotiveworld.com/news-releases/smmt-uk-car-and-commercial-vehicle-output-falls-in-april]. ### Conclusion: A Critical Juncture for the UK Automotive Industry The UK automotive industry is at a critical juncture, facing unprecedented challenges that have led to a **historic decline in production**. Key findings include: 1. **Significant Production Drop**: The industry recorded a **15.8% decrease** in output, the lowest since 1952. 2. **Economic Pressures**: Factors such as sluggish export demand and the transition to EVs are contributing to this decline. 3. **Future Outlook**: The industry is hopeful that new trade deals may provide the necessary stimulus for recovery. As the sector navigates these challenges, the focus will be on adapting to market demands and leveraging new opportunities for growth [https://www.motortrader.com/motor-trader-news/automotive-news/april-sees-car-and-commercial-vehicle-output-in-the-uk-decline-29-05-2025].