CV production down 15%
UK commercial vehicle manufacturing declined 15.5% in 2020, with just 66,116 vans, trucks, taxis, buses and coaches leaving production lines.
This is according to the latest figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), which also found December output was down 9.2%.
Production for the overseas and domestic markets both declined, down 17.8% and 12.2% respectively. Nevertheless, almost six out of every 10 commercial vehicles built in the UK in 2020 were exported, with the key market, the EU, placing the majority of orders for British-built CVs (94.9% export share).
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “2020 challenged commercial vehicle manufacturers beyond belief and, as the final figures show, reflect what has been the worst year in a lifetime for the sector. The pandemic hit markets across Europe while prolonged uncertainty threatened business confidence at home, as a potential ‘no deal’ Brexit loomed over the industry for much of the year and was only put to rest on Christmas Eve. However, with the vaccine rollout now in full swing and the necessary clarity businesses need for cross-channel trading requirements now visible, there is hope for the future.
“2021 must be focused on recovery and growth for commercial vehicle manufacturing. This starts with providing the right conditions to both attract investment and accelerate the take up of alternatively fuelled vehicles – a crucial next step on the way to a rapid and successful sector transition in the UK.”
