Demand ‘robust’ in HGV market

UK heavy goods vehicle (HGV) registrations grew by 0.4% to 9,533 units in the second quarter of 2022.

However, according to new figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), growth in the second quarter has not offset decline in the first quarter, with the half-year performance one per cent down on 2021 as the sector struggles to recover from global supply and demand disruptions caused by the pandemic.

Across the British nations, uptake varied considerably during the half-year period. England recorded a 1.3% decline in registrations, while those in Scotland fell by 8.7%. Operators in Northern Ireland and Wales, meanwhile, registered 23.8% and 6.5% more HGVs than last year respectively, although together they represent only 6.3% of total UK registrations.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “The best second quarter for the heavy goods vehicle market since the pandemic is a positive sign as the sector continues to navigate significant global supply shortages amid high inflation and rising fuel and energy costs. Demand remains robust, but to ensure the fleet renewal necessary to transition from fossil fuels to new technologies, government must encourage new vehicle acquisition and HGV charging infrastructure, keeping the UK at the front of the queue for the latest low and zero emission trucks.”

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