According to latest figures from the SMMT (Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders), truck sales rose by 38%, compared to January last year – boosting the familiar growth from the van sector, which increased by almost 22%.
DAF Trucks led the field in the 6 tonnes and above heavy trucks category, followed closely by Mercedes-Benz, with Scania in third position, Volvo in fourth and then Iveco, MAN and Renault Trucks.
"The truck market posted a strong return to form in January," says Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, who predicts the start of a "return to business as usual".
He adds: "The number of vans registered this month has once again increased, reflecting raised levels of business confidence and demand for a range of efficient, well equipped models."
Top performers in the truck sector were three-axle artics, which surged by 121%, compared to January 2014, followed by two-axle artics up by 72%, and 3.5- to 6-tonne rigids up by 19%.
In the van sector, the 2- to 2.5-tonne category saw a rise in registrations of 63% versus the same month last year, with second spot going to pickups, rising by 24%.
