LONDON — British automotive manufacturing fell solely barely in November however output is down by nearly a 3rd to this point in 2020 attributable to COVID-19 restrictions and the strategy of a potential Brexit shock on the finish of this month, the SMMT auto trade physique stated.

Manufacturing dropped by 1.4 percent last month to 106,243 vehicles however the comparability was flattered by a weak November 2019 when some crops had been closed attributable to Brexit issues, the Society of Motor Producers and Merchants stated.

12 months-to-date manufacturing to this point in 2020 is down 31 p.c.

“Yet one more decline for UK automotive manufacturing is in fact regarding, however not almost as regarding because the New 12 months nightmare dealing with the automotive trade if we don’t get a Brexit deal that works for the sector,” SMMT Chief Govt Mike Hawes stated.

Even when London and Brussels strike a commerce deal to keep away from commerce tariffs earlier than a Dec. 31 deadline, it’s nearly unimaginable for automotive companies to be prepared, the SMMT stated.

Versatile rules-of-origin thresholds for hybrid automobiles and batteries, and a phase-in interval to permit provide chains to adapt could be wanted as a part of any settlement, in addition to a 12-month grace interval for provider declarations on either side, it stated.