According to the latest figures released by the industry body the SMMT, the UK car industry has recorded a record level of exports of more than 1.2 million during the previous year.

The figure of 1.2 million represents an increase of about 8 per cent from the previous year. The figures also showed that the total production of cars within the country increased to its highest level since 2008. The total production of vehicles increased 9 per cent to 1.46 million during the previous year. The industry body noted that the production increased by 9 per cent in the month of December.

Paul Everitt, SMMT Chief Executive said, "2012 was a very good year for UK car production with record levels of exports and volumes at their highest since 2008. The outlook for 2013 remains positive with demand in many faster growing global markets offsetting the continued weakness in European economies."

He also said that the £6 billion investment commitment in the UK, new model programmes and possibilities of new R&D programmes indicates a bright future for the industry in the coming future. He pointed out that the industry continues to face challenging times and it is essential for the government and industry to work together to address the issue and boost growth in the industry.