TOKYO - Japanese auto production in April rose 3.9 percent from a year ago, marking the sixth straight month of gains, an industry set said Tuesday.

Vehicle production increased to 904,821 vehicles in April, the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association said.

Exports of cars, trucks and the buses jumped 10.6 percent from on year in April, climbing for the ninth straight month, the association said.Overseas demand for Japanese cars continues to underpin automakers' sales, with Japanese auto exports soaring to 473,632 vehicles, it said.