CV market buoyant in May

Commercial vehicle registrations rose 17.4 per cent in May to 31,922 units, according to the SMMT. This was the fifth consecutive monthly uplift for truck market, while vans hit a 150,000 registrations record.

“It is an indication of just how strongly the commercial vehicle sector has performed in recent months that May’s 17.4 per cent rise in registrations is actually the lowest so far in 2015,” said Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive. “Van market growth in particular remains robust, with year-to-date registrations up by more than a fifth, passing the 150,000 mark in May for the first time on record.

“Truck demand is also up by a staggering 35.9 per cent as fleet operators continue to push for maximum space and efficiency. The biggest gains in the month were again made in the heavier ends of the van and rigid truck markets, with a 35.6 per cent fall in two-axle artics balanced by a 35.6 per cent rise in those with three axles.”