The UK’s new HGV market increased 21.2 per cent in the first quarter of 2019, with 11,859 units registered, according to the latest figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
A number of large orders and strong market incentives helped drive registrations following flat performances in 2017 and 2018.
Registrations of rigid trucks grew by 12.9 per cent, with both the 6-16 tonne and over 16-tonne segments experiencing growth. Meanwhile, demand for articulated vehicles also rose, up a significant 32.3 per cent to 5520 units.
The majority of body types saw a rise in registrations, including tractor units, the most popular segment, with demand growing 30.2 per cent.
Tippers and box vans also experienced uplifts, of 18.2 per cent and 64.4 per cent respectively.
“The significant rise in truck registrations is certainly welcome news, but it is important to remember large fleet orders can have a big impact on this relatively small volume market,” said Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive.
“Despite the increase in demand, ongoing political and economic uncertainty is still a significant factor for businesses and we may see the market level out throughout 2019,” he concluded.
