“It is positive to see the commercial vehicle market continued to grow 17.5% in February, following last month’s successful 5.3% rise”, 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.
Van sales showed a healthy increase of 28.2%, however truck registrations stalled -27.3% following the move to the Euro-6 models.
Robinson continued, “The February van sector showed signs of employment growth as it is popular with service industries – indicating confidence in the domestic service and repair side of the business.
“The 2 – 2.50t market growth doubled in February, showing a surprising increase of 111%.
“Truck registrations continued to decline as expected, as the market adjusts to the new Euro-6 legislation. Whilst all models showed a significant decrease in sales, the worst effected were models over 16t multi axle rigid trucks (-55.8%) and the 3 axle tractor units (-31.5%).
“We anticipate the truck sector will improve as demand increases and hope that next month’s 14-plate change will possibly result in a higher volume of sales”.
ENDS
NOTES TO EDITORS:
Rupal Rawal, Communications Assistant
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.
