CV production spikes by 27%

Commercial vehicle production in the first quarter of the year surged by 27.4% to 32,626 units.

According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, this represents the best first quarter since 2008 and an 18.6% on pre-pandemic 2019 volumes.

However, growth in January and February was followed by a 19.2% decline in March as output fell to 7,943 units, the first monthly fall since September 2023.

Despite last month’s dip, growth is still expected this year, with the latest independent outlook expecting light van production volumes to hit over 135,000 units.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “It’s good to see UK CV production record its best quarter one performance in some 16 years, success testament to the determination of manufacturers to deliver for this vital sector, while investing in the latest cutting edge, ultra low and zero emission technology.

“Global demand continues for British-built commercial vehicles, emphasising the need for favourable market conditions to sustain our production capabilities for increasingly green vehicles. This means reducing energy costs, upskilling our workforce and maintaining free and fair trade deals, the result of which will allow us to attract further investment to improve productivity and decarbonise automotive manufacturing and its supply chain.”