“It is positive to see that the truck market has finally returned to form in January, helping the overall commercial vehicle market grow ”, 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.
January marked the ninth consecutive month of growth in the CV market - up 23.2% to 24,567 units. Van demand continued its upward trend and grew 21.7%, and Truck registrations increased 38.6% to 2,518 units, led by pent-up demand in the market.
Robinson continued, “After a suppressed demand for HGV trucks in 2014 following the introduction of Euro-6 and Type-Approval legislation, this month’s figures will no doubt bring back dealer confidence. In autumn 2014, many dealers reported a higher order-take for new chassis, and it seems that the registrations for the New Year have meant that many operators have waited to improve their vehicles residual values by taking delivery in the New Year.
“The most significant improvement came from the 3 axle tractor market - recording a 121% increase, and double registrations to 968 units compared to just 438 in January 2014. This indicates that the competition in the supermarket sector has not weakened the demand for deliveries.
“Sales of vans continued to show strong confidence in the economy in both retail and business sectors. Demand was strongest in the mid-size (2.0 – 2.5t) sector, where many of these vehicles are used in service industries.
“The NFDA are pleased to see the truck market is on the road to recovery and this month’s figures overall could mean a more well balanced truck market in 2015.”
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 Mo
