Truck registrations continued to rise (up 31.7% in February and 35.3% year to date), with SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes suggesting that demand among operators is now seeing a steady return to form, and leading to an "impressive performance".
That said, the rolling year picture is far less impressive, with a near 22% decline recorded against the previous 12 months, with 4x2 tractors particularly badly hit along with rigids from 6 to 16 tonnes.
Nevertheless, sustained strong performance from the van market, which rose by 19.5% in the month, also bolstered the picture of returning health.
"The truck market posted a second month of growth in February, with volumes up by more than a third so far this year," comments Hawes.
"While it might be too early to claim a full recovery, it appears to be on the right track," he continues.
And he adds: "The van market continues to expand, posting a tenth consecutive month of increases as improving confidence among SMEs and consumers takes effect."
As for winners and losers, in the truck market over 6 tonnes, DAF retains its top spot, with 504 sold in the month, followed by Mercedes-Benz, Scania, Volvo, Iveco, Renault and MAN in descending order.
From 3.5—6 tonnes, Ford keeps its the top spot, followed by Mercedes, Fiat, Peugeot, Iveco and VW.