The 2020 production figures released today confirm what many of us already knew – that the past year has challenged our industry beyond belief.
UK CV manufacturing is down -15.5% on 2019’s numbers, a tough yet unsurprising blow after the year we’ve had, and one mitigated somewhat by the sector’s ability to adapt to fluctuating demand. Social distancing restrictions and prolonged Brexit uncertainty while we waited for an agreement made for challenging business conditions. However, manufacturers and operators alike flexed to meet demand, keeping key services working without interruption and continuing to invest in new technologies and fleets.
It’s that resilience and ‘can-do’ spirit which means 2021 may be a turning point for commercial vehicles. This year is about recovery, growth and securing investment in an agile and resilient sector – so you should save the date for the CV Show 2021, from 8-10 June. Visitor registration starts next week and we’ll share more details shortly.
Further ahead, building back better will mean building back greener. Buy-in from all stakeholders will be key to a rapid and successful transition to zero-emission motoring. This is why we are holding the first-ever SMMT Electrified summit on 25th March later – an opportunity to hear from industry leaders and government stakeholders about the opportunities and challenges this transformation will bring, and how we get there. Life is the hardest teacher as it gives the test first, and then the lesson afterwards. We had our test in 2020. Let’s make sure we share what we’ve learned.
