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British car plants produced just over one million new vehicles in the first seven months of the year, according to newly published data.

Not since 2004 has the one-million mark been surpassed, says the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

"UK car production in 2016 is booming," SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes said, "with new British-built models in demand across the world."

Demand for UK built cars is up both at home and overseas, with July marking the 12th consecutive month of growth.

Year on year July output was up by 7.6%, with 126,566 vehicles having rolled off production lines.

1.02 million vehicles were built in the year to date, representing a 12.3% increase on the same period last year.

Overseas car buyers make up the lion’s share of the UK's customer base, comprising more than 75% of all sales.

"Manufacturers have invested billions to develop exciting new models and produce them competitively here in the UK," said Mr Hawes.

"Future success will depend on continued new car demand and attracting the next wave of investment so Britain must demonstrate it remains competitive and open for business."

The healthy sales figures appear to contradict the SMMT's prediction that a vote to leave the EU would be detrimental to the UK car industry. However, the long-term effects of the so-called “Brexit” remain to be seen.

The SMMT did not mention the sharp fall in the pound following the EU referendum, which has made UK products cheaper for oversea buyers.

Britain has seen huge investments made in its car production facilities over recent years. 2015 saw Jaguar Land Rover surpass Nissan as the UK’s biggest carmaker.