London, UK: The UK’s new truck market fell 73.4% in the second quarter of 2020, with 4,151 units registered, according to figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
While the bulk of the decline was driven by coronavirus lockdown measures, a particularly strong second quarter in 2019 – when the introduction of smart tachographs saw a large uptick in orders – contributed to this year’s decline, the society says.
Registrations of rigid trucks fell 72.6% while demand for articulated heavy trucks fell by 74.7% to 1,525 units. Tractors continued to make up the majority of HGV registrations with a 35.9% market share but all segments saw demand halved or worse.
In the year to date, the market is now 51.4% lower than the same period in 2019, with 14,120 fewer vehicles registered.
Mike Hawes, chief executive, SMMT, said: “Such a sharp decrease in heavy commercial vehicle registrations is deeply concerning given the sector’s critical role in keeping the country moving. While it is important to be mindful of the pronounced boost the introduction of new technologies had on last year’s figures, 2020 has been unprecedented.
“Given the current economic uncertainties, restoring operator confidence will be crucial in driving the UK’s recovery but also ensuring it is a green recovery, as getting more of the latest high-tech, low emission vehicles onto our roads is key to addressing environmental concerns.”
