CV production enjoys spring surge
UK commercial vehicle (CV) manufacturing output increased by 33.3% in April following two months of decline, with 10,504 vans, trucks, taxis, buses and coaches produced.
According to the latest figures published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), growth was driven by a 56.3% increase in the number of vehicles produced for export, with 7,382 units – or seven in 10 vans produced – heading abroad, with the European Union remaining the sector’s biggest overseas customer responsible for 94.4% of exports.
Increasing local production for a greater range of brands also added a boost to output. Production for the domestic market remained relatively flat declining by just -1.1% to 3,122 units.
Manufacturing output is now up nine per cent in the year to date at 36,114 units.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “It’s good news to see the commercial vehicle market bounce back – surpassing even pre-pandemic levels – to deliver the best April performance in 13 years. This is healthy growth driven by significant demand from overseas markets, namely Europe, highlighting the need to protect this trade, which is critical to our ongoing success. For growth to continue, however, government must introduce measures, which not only invite investment and reduce the erratic energy costs which threaten our competitiveness, but also find a sensible solution to the rules of origin challenge faced by manufacturers.”
