“We are pleased to see that commercial vehicle registrations in the EU grew by 8.0% in March marking 15 consecutive months of growth,” 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).
Figures released today show that demand for new commercial vehicles in the EU rose 8.0% in March, totalling 242,049. Amongst the largest European markets Italy recorded the strongest growth (+29.3%), followed by France (+6.4%), UK (+3.2%) and Germany (+2.6%). In Spain, registrations saw a minor decline (-0.6%). It is also extremely encouraging that all segments of commercial vehicles recorded a positive upturn.
Robinson continued, "This has been a very positive first quarter for the EU market that saw a general increase of 12.1%, totalling 563,132 commercial vehicles. Also, during the first three months of the year all major markets have grown.
“The segment of light commercial vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes rose 7.6% compared to the same month last year, marking 31 consecutive months of growth. In total, 204,157 units were registered. Registrations remained strong also for heavier trucks over 3.5 tonnes, growing 11.1% compared to March 2015 and totalling 34,092 new trucks registered in the EU.
“Considering the huge results recorded in 2015, it is encouraging to see that the market is continuing to perform well on the back of last year’s success.”
ENDS
NOTES TO EDITORS:
Rupal Rawal, Press 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.
