Heavy truck market rises in first quarter

The heavy goods vehicle market rose slightly in the first quarter with registrations reaching 10,400 units over six tonnes, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

Light rigids (under 16 tonnes) were the best performers, with registrations rising 17.2 per cent on last year to 2,543 units. Three-axle artics also performed well with registrations rising 1.1 per cent on last year to 3,561 units.

However, registrations of rigids over 16 tonnes were down 8.1 per cent to 3,949 units.

SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes said: “The stable start to the year for the heavy truck market is welcome news, particularly as it follows such a strong first quarter in 2016. HGVs are essential for transporting goods around the country and are vital for the UK economy. Almost all HGVs are powered by diesel, and thanks to heavy investment by industry the latest Euro VI CVs hitting our roads today are the cleanest and safest ever.”

DAF maintained its market leadership with market share rising to 32.7 per cent in the first quarter from 31.3 per cent last year. But second placed Scania saw its market share fall back from 18.2 per cent to 14.8 per cent.

Volvo had a strong quarter with its share rising from 12 per cent to 13.8 per cent.