Commercial vehicle production hits 16-year high in 2024
UK commercial vehicle production grew by four per cent in 2024 to reach its highest level in 16 years.
According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, 125,649 vans, trucks, taxis, buses and coaches were produced last year despite a slowdown in the fourth quarter.
Over the full year, commercial vehicle production for export increased by 6.6% to 82,097 units, with 97.8% of that going to the EU, while production for the UK market fell by 0.8% to 43,552 units.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “The best British commercial vehicle production performance since 2008 is testament to the sector’s agility, and, as the global pursuit of zero emission road transport intensifies, it must now adjust to new challenges.
“Anchoring automotive manufacturing in the UK will drive long term economic growth, and that must start with creating ambitious industrial and trade strategies that deliver the competitive production base, healthy domestic market and export conditions needed to provide a return on investments.”
