February bus and coach registrations up 73.6 per cent

The total bus and coach sector grew significantly in February to 519 registrations, up 73.6 per cent, with the year-to-date up 39.9 per cent, says the SMMT. Registrations of purpose-built buses and coaches rose 121.7 per cent in the month and 72.6 per cent for the first two months of 2012. Converted bus registrations were up 32.3 per cent in February, and 8.7 per cent for the year-to-date.

“Purpose-built bus and coach registrations more than doubled last month, underpinned by sustained demand for heavy buses and coaches as buyers continue to put new, reliable and fuel-efficient models into operation,” said Paul Everitt, SMMT Chief Executive. “The overall bus and coach sector also saw solid growth in February, growing almost 75 per cent with the year-to-date up 40%. To maintain this momentum, it is vital that the Chancellor uses this month’s Budget to shore-up business confidence by encouraging private sector investment.”

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