Bus and coach sales hit pandemic roadblock
The UK new bus and coach market fell by 32% in 2020, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
It fell to 3,996 vehicles, the worst total since records began.
The impact of coronavirus lockdowns ultimately dealt a hammer blow to demand for new vehicles, with all body styles experiencing double-digit declines. Single-deck vehicle registrations, however, were the worst affected, their number tumbling 58.7% to 755 representing a loss of 1,072 units. Minibus and double-deck registrations fell 15.7% and 33.9% respectively.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “The bus and coach sector has been hit extremely hard by the pandemic, with passenger numbers plummeting last year and with it, demand for new vehicles. The sector has demonstrated its adaptability over the past year but, with the start of 2021 looking similarly challenging, it’s now critical that the sector funding and National Bus Strategy promised by government is released.
“Operators need the confidence to invest in their fleets, fleets which are becoming increasingly electrified to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality, and which are fundamental to the economy and the need to keep people moving.”
