- Double-digit decline in new bus and coach market in 2017, down -12.7%.
- Registrations of minibuses, single-decks and double-decks all down, with 7,666 joining UK roads.
- Q4 registrations fall -15.9% to 1,688 units.
The UK’s new bus and coach market fell in every quarter of 2017, according to figures released today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Following a period of strong growth in 2015 and 2016, last year saw registrations decline by -12.7% to 7,666.
Double-deck demand saw the biggest fall across the year, declining -17.1% with 1,598 units registered. Single-decks and minibuses also experienced declines, down -8.2% and -13.2% respectively.
Between October and December, 1,688 new buses and coaches were registered, falling -15.9%. Single-deck and double-deck registrations both saw double-digit declines in Q4, by -20.7% and -27.6% respectively. Meanwhile, demand for minibuses was down -5.7%.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “Following strong market performance in the previous two years and the highly cyclical nature of fleet purchasing in this sector, it’s no surprise to see orders fall in 2017. However, declining business confidence undoubtedly played a part. To encourage future long-term investment, operators must have economic and regulatory certainty. Government’s proposed closure of the Euro V legislation loophole is overdue and must be implemented urgently if we are to get more of the latest low emission Euro VI vehicles onto our roads and improve air quality in our towns and cities.”