Carmakers call for help on costs as production falls 7.5% in the first half of this year

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders reports that 385,979 cars and vans were produced on UK assembly lines during the first half of 2026. This represents a 7.5% decrease in vehicle production between January and July compared to the previous year. The industry trade group warns that domestic policy decisions and tariffs are currently weighing on the struggling sector, leading carmakers to call for assistance regarding costs as production levels continue to fall significantly.