The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders’ (SMMT) has held its second International Automotive Summit in Central London with over 250 delegates attending. They were discussing the future of the UK motor industry, its role in supporting the economy and the growth opportunities through low carbon technology.

The Secretary of State, Dr Vince Cable, who made his first address at the summit also commented,”The car industry has endured tough times in the last few years but we are now seeing reasons for cautious optimism. Low carbon cars offer opportunities for future business growth and the UK is leading the way with Toyota’s plant in Derby this week starting production of the first mass produced fully hybrid car in Europe and Nissan starting recruitment at their electric battery plant in Sunderland”.

Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive said yesterday,”Today’s Summit marks a new era for the UK automotive industry following a period of difficulty for the wider economy. We look forward to welcoming delegates and working together to help strengthen the UK supply chain and to support a transition to low carbon vehicles“.