Strong van performance for January – but Euro 6 bites truck figures06 February 2014

Commercial vehicle registrations grew by more than 5% in January, according to figures released today (6 February) by the Society for Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

The increase was buoyed by a 13% uptick in van numbers compared with January 2013, though it was marred by a 37% drop in truck registrations – a fall widely anticipated, due to the move to the more expensive mandatory Euro 6 engine emissions technology.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said the positive van results underlined "more robust business confidence".

He added: "As expected, the pre-Euro-6 rush at the end of last year dented truck volumes in January – a market factor we expect to continue for some months.

"Looking ahead, SMMT is confident that van registrations will continue to grow at a sustainable rate, while truck demand should level out over the full year."

The strongest van figures came from the 2.5 to 3.5-tonne sector, posting an increase of 27%, followed closely by 4x4 vehicles, at 22%. The only van sector to register a fall was those under 2 tonnes, dropping by almost 13%.

Overall, rigid trucks dropped by 28% compared with the same month last year, and artic registrations fell by a full 52%.

Author
Laura Cork

Related Companies
Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders Ltd

This material is protected by MA Business copyright
See Terms and Conditions.
One-off usage is permitted but bulk copying is not.
For multiple copies contact the sales team.