N. American Output to Hit 11-Year High in 2013

Automakers will build more than 16 million cars and light trucks in North America this year, the highest production level since 2002, Automotive News Europe reports.

The online newspaper cites forecasts by LMC Automotive, which predicts regional annual output of 16 million units and IHS Automotive, whose estimate is 100,000 units higher.

North American production is running at 90% of capacity, according to LMC. It notes that full-speed operation puts extra pressure on carmakers that are launching new models, since any stumble will create a shortfall that competitors will be quick to exploit.

LMC expects North American output to grow 7% year over year to 3.9 million vehicles in the July-September period. Only Volkswagen's projected quarterly production will be lower, according to the firm, which cites slow demand for the VW Jetta compact and Passat midsize sedans.

The smallest third-quarter increases are expected at Chrysler-Fiat and General Motors, which are launching next-generation versions of key models. Output will rise 4% to 794,000 units at GM, which will debut the latest version of the Chevrolet Silverado big pickup truck this autumn, LMC says. It expects a 6% gain to 581,000 units at Chrysler, which is ramping up production of new versions of the Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee SUVs.

The firm also predicts quarterly regional output to rise at Ford (+8% to 717,000 units), Toyota (+13% to 466,000 units), Honda (+17% to 444,000 units), Nissan (+20% to 377,000 units) and Hyundai-Kia (+8% to 202,000 units).