UK engine manufacturing grew by 7.5% in 2016, to 2,545,608 units, according to figures published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

The SMMT says domestic demand fuelled production, with 1,124,947 engines built for the home market – the largest volume on record. 2016 ended on a high with a 4.2% rise in December.

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “It’s fantastic to see engine manufacturing thriving here in the UK, with multi-million pound investments in plant and machinery coming to fruition. A record 44.2% of production last year was for British-built cars, vans, trucks and buses, reflecting not just the diversity of our vehicle manufacturing sector but its success as production volumes continue to grow. Delivering the most competitive business conditions will enable the whole of UK Automotive to prosper.”