United Kingdom’s vehicle production fell by 32.8% in May, with exports dropping as United States tariffs took effect.
Just 49,810 cars and commercial vehicles were made in the U.K. last month, according to the country’s Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Across 2025 to date, production has fallen 12.9% to reach its lowest levels since 1953.
“While 2025 has proved to be an incredibly challenging year for UK automotive production, there is the beginning of some optimism for the future,” said SMMT CEO Mike Hawes.
“Confirmed trade deals with crucial markets, especially the US and a more positive relationship with the EU, as well as government strategies on industry and trade that recognise the critical role the sector plays in driving economic growth, should help recovery.”
U.K. car production fell by 31.5% to 47,723 units in May, which the SMMT credited to model changeovers and the impact of the U.S.’ tariffs.
Commercial vehicle production dropped by 53.5% to 2,087 units, partly due to the closure of Luton’s Vauxhall plant in March.
Exports to the U.S. and European Union declined by 55.4% and 22.5% amid U.S. tariffs, which had included a 25% levy on cars and car parts from the U.K. Export volumes of vehicles like vans, buses, and trucks plummeted by 71.7% year-over-year.
These tariffs “depressed demand instantly, forcing many manufacturers to stop shipments,” according to the SMMT.
The U.S. and U.K. agreed earlier in June to lower tariffs on U.K. vehicles to 10% for a maximum of 100,000 cars, with imports above this number subject to a 27.5% tariff.
Exports to other markets also dipped last month, with the number of vehicles sent to China and Turkey down by 11.5% and 51.0%.
Related content
