Canadian manufacturers saw monthly shipments rise in August by 3.3% as a result of demand for oil and a rebound in the production of motor vehicles and parts.

Statistics Canada said today that the value of shipments hit $51.87 billion for the month, up from $50.21 billion in July.

The motor vehicle industry, which accounted for roughly 12% of total shipments in August, posted stronger-than-normal gains in shipments of 10.5% to $6.1 billion for the month.

“Several automobile manufacturers were in full production of the 2006 models to stock showrooms in the fall,” Statistics Canada said, adding that July figures were weak due to seasonal shutdowns and some production cuts.

A 6.5% jump in the price of petroleum and coal products, coupled with strong demand, pushed shipments above the $5 billion mark for the first time.

The oil sector benefited from higher crude prices brought on by some refinery closures and the threat of hurricanes against oil production in the U.S. Gulf Coast.