“October proved to be another buoyant month for commercial vehicle registrations which is welcoming news to the truck and van sector”, 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.
New total commercial vehicle figures released today show overall sales were up 27.3% in October and up 9.8% year-to-date. Van sales increased by 26.3% last month, whilst truck demand rose by 32%.
Robinson continued, “Vans up to 3.5 tonnes showed a healthy increase in sales of 26.3% over October of last year and the upturn was mainly in the heavier 2 tonne to 3.5 tonnes. These light commercials are used in businesses as service vans or final-mile deliveries, which also saw a much stronger demand - a YTD growth of 11% compared to a less positive outlook in 2012 of 6.5%.
“Truck sales were up 32% in October, however the 3.2% YTD rise showed the increase has only been in the last few months as sales of Euro 5 engine trucks run-out.
“The recent upturn in the market is partly the result of uplift in business confidence in the economy. As the demand for Euro 5 trucks begins to slow down, many commentators are concerned that the early part of 2014 could see a decrease in demand as many of these recent truck sales have been brought forward to miss the Euro 6 legislation from next year.
“As in previous months Artic units continued their upward growth to 37.1% in October and up 18.3% for this year. Rigid chassis had a buoyant month showing growth of 27.5% but this recent upturn has not eradicated the overall sluggish year for the rigid truck sector, showing a year to date performance of -5%”.
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.
