SMMT reports dip in commercial vehicle output

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders has reported that UK commercial vehicle manufacturing fell 2.9% in the first six months of the year.

It found that 56,956 vans, trucks, taxis, buses and coaches were produced in the first six months of the year.

Despite the year-on-year decline, including a two per cent drop in output in June, overall levels remain high at 31.3% above the pre-pandemic five-year average. Overseas shipments were 3.6% up in the first half at 39,168 units, but production for the domestic market was down 14.8%.

Dip in commercial vehicle output

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “While a decline in output is always disappointing, some normalisation following the CV sector’s rapid post-pandemic recovery was expected. The sector remains in good health with strong global demand for high quality British-built CVs and plants ramping up EV production to meet current and future needs.

“However, the sector will not rest on its laurels and will work with the new government to deliver the favourable industrial, trade and market conditions that are essential if manufacturers are to drive economic growth and decarbonisation in every part of the country.”

The news comes as the latest independent industry outlook forecasts light CV production to grow to some 110,000 units this year, rising to more than 130,000 in 2030.