“It is extremely positive to see that European new commercial vehicles registrations performed well in April showing a sustained growth across all segments,” said Sue Robinson, Director of the National Franchised Dealers Association which represents commercial vehicle and franchised car retailers across the UK, commenting on figures published by ACEA (European Automobile Manufacturers' Association).
Commercial vehicle registrations rose 14.6% in April to 195,013 units. In the first four months of 2016, the market was up 12.8% compared to the same period last year. All the largest markets grew: Italy recorded the highest upturn (+32.5%), followed by Spain (+19.5%), Germany (+12.3%) and the UK (+11.2%).
New heavy commercial vehicles (HCV) over 16 tonnes grew by 22.2% to 26,457 units, experiencing the most significant improvement. Light commercial vehicles (LCV) up to 3.5 tonnes rose 13.6% and new medium and heavy commercial vehicles (MHCV) over 3.5 tonnes were up 21.3%.
Robinson continued, “In line with the car market, commercial vehicle registrations continued to grow in the EU marking 16 consecutive months of growth in April.
“Outstanding results were recorded in the truck segment – heavy trucks registrations grew by 70.4% in Italy and 32.4% in Spain.
“With a stronger European economy signs are that this trend will continue for the remainder of the year.”
ENDS
NOTES TO EDITORS:
Gabriele Severini, NFDA Communications Officer Tel: 020 7307 3423 Mob: 07880 039897 Press Office direct line: 020 7307 3422 Press Office fax: 020 7307 3406 Web: www.rmif.co.uk Email: gabriele.severini@rmif.co.uk
The Retail Motor Industry represents the interests of operators in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man providing sales and services to motorists and businesses. The RMI has a formal association with the independent Scottish Motor Trade Association which represents the retail motor industry in Scotland.
