Overseas demand drives UK CV manufacturing in April
31 May 2018- UK commercial vehicle manufacturing up a fifth in April, with more than 7,000 units produced.
- Exports demand continues to drive output, up 28.5% to take 70.9% production share.
- Year-to-date production remains down, with 26,551 CVs produced so far this year.
UK commercial vehicle (CV) manufacturing increased by almost a fifth (19.0%) in April 2018, according to figures published today by the Society of Motor Manufactures and Traders (91ÖÆƬ³§¹ÙÍø). 7,299 CVs were built in Britain last month as a rise in overseas demand boosted production.
Production for export in the month increased by 28.5%, with more than seven in 10 CVs destined for international markets. Meanwhile, demand from domestic fleets remained stable, up 0.9%, with 2,124 vans, trucks and buses produced for UK customers.
Year-to-date production figures remain down, falling -10.2% on 2017, with manufacturing for both domestic and overseas markets declining -21.1% and -4.3% respectively. However, in line with the monthly figures, exports continue to account for the lion’s share of production, at 68.8%.
Mike Hawes, SMMTChief Executive, said,
While it is positive to see an increase in CV production, given the fluctuating nature of fleet buying cycles, caution is advised when making month-by-month comparisons. However, today’s figures highlight just how dependent the industry is on production for export, particularly to the EU – our largest customer. If we are to see future long-term growth, government must negotiate the right Brexit deal to ensure our mutual trade remains free and free flowing.
