London, UK: Commercial vehicle production has jumped by 11.3% to 73,600 units, with growth largely driven by an increase in sales of rigid 2 axle trucks and vans as demand for home deliveries soared during lockdowns.
The figures, which include vans, trucks, taxis, buses and coaches, from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, also reveal that despite the growth, commercial vehicle production remains 14.4% down on the pre-pandemic five-year average.
The SMMT says: “While this is positive news, it must be viewed in the context of a Covid-ravaged 2020, which saw social distancing measures and lockdowns throughout the year badly affect manufacturing capabilities. The 2021 performance, although an improvement on 2020, was still -14.4%, or some 12,356 units, down on the five-year pre pandemic average.
“Over the course of the year, production for the UK increased by more than a quarter (27.3%), while manufacturing for overseas markets was broadly stable, down just -0.6%. Despite this, more than half (51.2%) of all output was exported, with the bulk heading to EU markets (93.2% export share).
Mike Hawes, chief executive, SMMT, said: “After the worst year in a lifetime, the growth in production for commercial vehicles during 2021 is extremely welcome. Despite a plethora of challenges, manufacturers have remained operational throughout the year.
“The sector isn’t out of the woods yet, however, and challenges remain heading into 2022. Support will be necessary to ensure the supply chain can overcome ongoing semiconductor-related shortages as well as measures to ensure energy costs do not rise to an extent that it significantly undermines competitiveness.
