The UK automotive sector has reported record turnover for the sector, up more than 12% to £55 billion, with exports at record levels and increased investment across the industry.

Independent forecasts suggest the sector is on course to hit all-time record manufacturing levels by 2015, while manufacturing plants continued to make considerable progress in reducing their environmental impact.

Data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders’ (SMMT) 13th Annual Sustainability Report showed significant improvements against all key environmental performance indicators, while ensuring sustained investment and growth in manufacturing output.

“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, all while reducing our environmental footprint.

"In a tough economic climate, the automotive sector has continued to perform above expectations, demonstrating the significant role it has to play in a re-balanced economy,” said SMMT chief executive, Paul Everitt.

“Our industry is at the forefront of the drive to a low carbon economy attracting investment in the research, development and manufacture of low and ultra-low carbon technologies, creating new jobs and growth opportunities throughout the supply chain and introducing attractive products that are reducing transport emissions as well,” he continued.

The new report reveals how the automotive industry consistently invests in young people with the latest figures showing a rise of around 12% in engineering apprenticeships in 2011.

Initiatives such as See Inside Manufacturing are key to informing young people and their teachers and careers advisers of the rewarding range of engineering careers open to them in automotive.

It also motivates young people to consider taking up a STEM subject (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) to ensure UK automotive continues to attract bright and highly-skilled young talent.

To download SMMT’s 13th Annual Sustainability Report, go to www.smmt.co.uk/sustainability.