“It is positive to see that demand for heavy trucks showed a strong and stable growth in the first quarter of 2016”,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 truck registration figures.
The new HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicles) market continues to perform well. 10,363 new commercial vehicles over six tonnes were put on UK roads in the first three months of this year, 19.2% more than compared to the same period in 2015.
Robinson continued, “Registrations of tractor units saw a minor decline, however, tractors still represent the biggest segment of the market accounting for around 38% of all HGVs registered in the UK in Q1. This slight decline was offset by the huge increment of rigid trucks over 16 tonnes, up 48.1% supported by the increasing demand and strong growth in the construction sector.
“Box bodied trucks, which are often used for logistics activities and distribution of goods, as well as tipper bodied trucks also performed well.
“In addition to the overall increase of 19.2% in the UK in Q1, it is extremely encouraging to see that HGV registrations experienced a massive growth of 40% in Scotland, albeit this is a smaller market in terms of volume.
“The NFDA is pleased to see that truck dealers feel confident that the HGV market will stay strong throughout the remainder of 2016, in line with last year’s result.”
ENDS
NOTES TO EDITORS:
Gabriele Severini, NFDA Communications Officer Tel: 020 7307 3423 Mob: 07880 039897 Press Office direct line: 020 7307 3422 Press Office fax: 020 7307 3406 Web: www.rmif.co.uk Email: gabriele.severini@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.
