- UK CV production increases 14.9% in September, with output reaching 8,281 units.
- Home demand drives growth, up 62.0%, while exports decline -13.5%.
- Year-to-date production stable, with 60,759 vans, trucks and buses produced so far this year.
UK commercial vehicle (CV) manufacturing increased by almost 15.0% in September 2018, according to figures published today by the Society of Motor Manufactures and Traders (SMMT). 8,281 CVs were built in Britain last month as several large fleet orders from the home market boosted production.
While the number of CVs produced for overseas customers fell -13.5% in the month, production for the UK market more than compensated, rising by 1,679 units (62.0%), thanks to large fleet orders from British businesses. Year-to-date production figures remain stable, falling -0.8% on 2017, with manufacturing for the domestic market down -4.0%, and export demand up 1.2%, accounting for almost two-thirds of total output.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said,
While it’s positive to see an increase in production in September, specifically for the home market, CV manufacturing works to low volumes so a single large fleet order can heavily influence output figures.
Overall, production continues to be driven by exports, with more than six in 10 commercial vehicles manufactured in the UK destined for overseas customers, the majority in the EU. If we are to see future long-term growth, trade with our biggest customer must remain free and free flowing.
