The UK automotive industry generated record turnover in 2011, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

A new report from the organisation showed earnings for the sector stood at £55 billion last year, up by 12 per cent year on year.

This result was partly achieved through an increase in exports, which climbed by 14 per cent to represent a record 81.6 per cent of total output, worth more than £30 billion to the industry.

In addition, combined car and commercial vehicle output rose by 5.1 per cent, while energy usage per unit dropped by 14 per cent on 2010 levels.

Paul Everitt, chief executive of the SMMT, said: "Automotive is continuing to lead the country's economic recovery, increasing manufacturing output, delivering record turnover and exporting a greater proportion of cars than ever before."

Last month, the SMMT revealed that UK automotive output climbed to 141,146 cars in May, the month's highest production total since 2004.

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Posted by Clare Lafferty