“It is encouraging to see that the commercial vehicle market grew 11.0% to 363,155 units in 2014, the highest level since 2007”, said Sue Robinson, Director of the National Franchised Dealers Association which represents commercial vehicle and franchised car retailers across the UK, commenting on the SMMT’s van and truck registration figures.
The van market leads with growth up 18.7% to 321,686 registrations for the year, whereas truck registrations fell -26.2% throughout the year due to changing legislation.
Registrations for vans under 3.5t remained buoyant at 26.6%, meaning an additional 6500 vans were put on the road in December. Overall these light commercial registrations were up to pre-recession levels throughout the year with growth of 18.7%. This was due to the upturn in the economy, plus the increase in self-employed tradesmen and start-up business.
Robinson continued, “The outlook for truck sales in 2015 looks brighter, compared to the decline in 2014 of -26.2% following the introduction of EU legislation that had a significant impact on the market.
“Truck dealer reports indicate that there will be strong demand for new models in 2015, but concerns continue following delays by the DVSA to cope with Type Approval testing to be able to get these new trucks on the road for customers.
“Van demand looks set to remain strong as the confidence and growth in the economy continues. The NFDA are anticipating a successful year from the commercial vehicle market.”
ENDS
NOTES TO EDITORS:
Rupal Rawal, Communications Officer
Tel: 020 7307 3412
Mob: 07528 977 157
Press Office direct line: 020 7307 3422
Press Office fax: 020 7307 3406
Web: www.rmif.co.uk Email: rupal.rawal@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.
