Car production in the UK fell by just 0.3%, year-on-year, in January 2014 to 128,620, according to figures released by the SMMT.
The main reason for the fall was manufacturing for the home market, which fell 6.2% to 25, 239, whereas vehicles for export actually grew 1.2% to 103,381. As a result, the percentage of vehicles made for export was 80.4%.
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According to Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said "We expect domestic car output to accelerate throughout 2014 as new model introductions reach full volume. Looking further ahead, we anticipate further growth as investments by some of the world’s biggest automotive brands become reality, creating more jobs and huge opportunities for UK-based suppliers."
As a result of this, and the possibility of a European market recovery having a positive impact for overseas trade, SMMT analysts said they expect growth over the whole year.
