Bus and coach market suffers third-quarter dip
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders has reported that the new bus and coach market fell by 11.6% in the third quarter of the year.
Just 754 units joined UK roads in the months between July and September, with the greatest decline coming in the minibus segment, which fell 26.9%.
However, single and double-decker buses increased 13.2% and 38.8% respectively.
Year-to-date registrations are up 8.1% overall, with further growth pegged on release of impending government ZEV funding.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “During highly challenging operating conditions, growth in bus and coach registrations in the year to date is a cause for optimism, with a rising number of electric models making public transport greener than ever. However, the third quarter decline makes evident that we cannot be complacent in the face of still diminished ridership levels, with more timely delivery of government funding to all regions of the UK needed to ensure affordable, zero emission mass mobility for all.”
