LCV production to reach pre-recession levels
LCV production is expected to reach pre-recession levels by 2014, a new report into car and LCV production revealed today.
Car and LCV production combined will rise from 16.1 million to 17.2 million units in 2010, according to the report by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.
If the increase continues, the industry is expected to produce 20.4 million units by 2014 – the same level as 2007.
The reports states the excess capacity in European production plants is a problem, but manufacturers are optimising current production instead of closing plants.
As the production of LCVs increases, the report highlights the role electric and hybrid vans will play in the European industry over the next decade.
In particular, the SMMT says Ford has had to increase shifts in its plants to meet demand, and will be boosted by the launch of the electric Transit Connect in 2011.
Vans such as the Vauxhall Vivaro and Ford Transit are currently being built in the UK, although the Ford Transit is set to move production to Turkey when the new model arrives next year.