Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) is the trade association for the United Kingdom motor industry. Its role is to "promote the interests of the UK automotive industry at home and abroad."

History

SMMT was founded by Frederick Richard Simms on 16 July 1902. In January 1959 it moved to Forbes House, and in August 2011 it moved into its current offices at 71 Great Peter Street, London.

Motor Show

One of its early functions was holding motor shows, the earliest of which was at Crystal Palace in January 1903 (now known as the British International Motor Show). The Motor Industry Research Association (MIRA) was formed in 1945. In 1978, the Motor Show moved to the National Exhibition Centre. In 2006, the Motor Show returned to London at ExCel in 2006.

Vehicle registrations

In July 1972 it started the Motor Vehicle Registration Information System (MVRIS), which works on behalf of the government to collate data about new registrations of vehicles. Data is obtained from vehicle manufacturers and/or importers and the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency. Figures are released on the fourth working day of every month and detailed analysis are available for purchase.