The new Luton-built Vauxhall Vivaro van is another example of the recent upturn in local supply. The latest model, which started production last year, contains more than twice the number of British-sourced components at 40% than its predecessor’s 16%. This means an extra £600M will be spent with British suppliers, allowing local companies to expand – and in some cases it has saved whole factories.
A strong domestic supply chain is critical to the success of the UK automotive sector
Mike Hawes, chief executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), said: “A strong domestic supply chain is critical to the success of the UK automotive sector. We want British suppliers to capitalise on the renaissance in UK vehicle manufacturing, and these figures show that positive strides are already being made.
“The work of the Automotive Council is central to this progress, and will continue to be while many component manufacturers still face issues such as access to finance and lack of incentives to innovate.”
The report, Growing the Automotive Supply Chain – The Opportunity Ahead, identifies a further £4Bn-per-year opportunity for UK automotive suppliers to expand their business in the coming years.
To download the full report click here.
