The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (UK) reports that car manufacturing in May hit the highest level of output since 2004 – as reported on Motortrader.com

Car production for the month totalled 141,146 units, which represents a year on year increase of 42.2%, with year-to-date volumes up 17.3%.

However, CV output for the month fell 7.4% to 9,445 units which pushed the year to date figure down 6.4% to 47,729 units.

UK engine manufacturing rose 13.4% in May, as year-to-date volumes topped the one million mark.

Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive, said the increase in car production was an impressive result as last year’s figures were impacted by supply issues related to the Japanese tsunami.

“This boost, coupled with robust year-to-date results demonstrates the strength of UK automotive manufacturing and shows why it continues to attract high levels of international investment,” he said.

“While commercial vehicle output remains subdued, in line with restrained levels of demand, the year’s engine output volume passed one million in May and is more than 40,000 units ahead of last year.”