UK factories made 116,639 auto engines in May, more than double May 2020’s COVID-19 lockdown-suppressed output.
May 2021 output was nonetheless down 47.6% on the five-year average for the month.
Year-to-date output rose 18.8% to 781,834 with increased production for the domestic market.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said, “It’s no surprise to see exponential growth in engine production, as the pandemic subdued demand across key global markets last May.
“Despite the doubling of output this month, a recovery to pre-pandemic levels is still some way off as export volume remains low and the industry is hindered by the global shortage of semi-conductors.
“As the UK approaches the end of the lockdown, it is vital that the Government continues to support the industry for as long as is required, as production uncertainty is likely to remain at least until the end of the year.”