“It is encouraging to see that van registrations improved in February, although truck sales continued to disappoint last month” 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 commercial vehicle figures released today show overall sales rose 5% in February. Heavy truck registrations decreased by 16.3% last month, whilst van registrations increased by 11.8%.
Robinson continued “The poor truck sales in February may indicate that businesses still feel a sense of uncertainly about the economy and many businesses hold little hope in what this month’s Budget will have to offer them. The introduction of Euro 6 legislation at the end of the year was hoping to boost sales of the last few Euro 5 engined trucks available and this may still happen later this year but there is no evidence of this so far in 2013.
“Van sales continue to improve suggesting confidence in the service industries who are one of the main procurers of this type of vehicle. Until recently many businesses have put off buying a new vehicle due to economic conditions but can no longer delay as their vehicle ages with consequent effect on repair and maintenance costs. The market is also being supported by strong manufacturer deals and offers that are encouraging businesses to buy.
ENDS
NOTES TO EDITORS:
Keely Scanlan, Press Officer
Tel: 020 7307 3410
Mob: 07825097697
Press Office direct line: 020 7307 3422
Press Office fax: 020 7307 3406
Web: www.rmif.co.uk Email: keely.scanlan@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.