HGV market down three quarters on 2019
The UK’s new heavy goods vehicle (HGV) market fell 73.4% in the second quarter of 2020. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has reported that just 4,151 units were registered.
While the bulk of the decline was driven by coronavirus lockdown measures, a particularly strong quarter two in 2019 contributed to this year’s decline.
In the year to date, the market is now 51.4% lower than the same period in 2019, with 14,120 fewer vehicles registered.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “Such a sharp decrease in heavy commercial vehicle registrations is deeply concerning given the sector’s critical role in keeping the country moving. While it is important to be mindful of the pronounced boost the introduction of new technologies had on last year’s figures, 2020 has been unprecedented. Given the current economic uncertainties, restoring operator confidence will be crucial in driving the UK’s recovery but also ensuring it is a green recovery, as getting more of the latest high-tech, low emission vehicles onto our roads is key to addressing environmental concerns.”
