Industry · Wales

SMMT says Welsh automotive sector supports 7,000 jobs

The trade body says the sector contributes £477 million to the UK economy and highlighted Welsh plants and suppliers at a Newport forum.

motors.wales newsroom Published 25 July 2026

SMMT says Wales' automotive sector directly supports 7,000 jobs and contributes £477 million to the UK economy, citing analysis released alongside its Regional Forum in Newport.

The industry body said automotive, Welsh Government and defence-sector leaders met to discuss electrification, regulation, energy costs, trade uncertainty and investment opportunities for suppliers.

SMMT identified Aston Martin's St Athan factory, Toyota UK's Deeside engine plant and Vishay Newport among businesses it says demonstrate Wales' role in the UK automotive supply chain. The figures and analysis are SMMT's claims.

The conversation