According to the association, this is "new growth above three digits," with production continuing to "show very positive behaviour in the light category, but heavy vehicles fell again."

In the second month of the year, passenger car production increased by 160.1%, to a total of 20,013 vehicles, while for commercial vehicles the increase was 9.9% (3,508) and for heavy vehicles the drop was of 18.1% (422).

Production in the first two months of 2018 posted growth of 105% on year, with a total of 49,210 units manufactured.

In January and February, passenger car production increased by 158.2% (total of 40,866 vehicles), light commercial vehicles increased by 7% (7,594), while in the heavy category there was a decrease of 30.9% (750).

ACAP also noted that statistics for January and February "confirm the importance of exports to the automotive sector, since 96.5% of vehicles manufactured in Portugal are destined for the foreign market."

Europe continues to be the leading market for exports of vehicles manufactured in Portugal, accounting for 94.7% of the total. Germany (19.9%), France (15.2%) and Italy (12.2%) are the main markets.

In terms of large regions, the Asian market, led by China (3.6%), is the second biggest market for exports of cars manufactured in Portugal, according to the statement.