HGV registrations enjoy strong growth

The UK market for new heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) grew by 17.2% to 11,174 units in the second quarter of 2023, the fifth consecutive quarter of growth.

This is according to the latest figures published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

Growth was driven primarily by registrations of articulated trucks, up 23.3% to 5,121 units, while deliveries of rigid trucks rose by 12.5% to 6,053.

Uptake grew in three of the four Home Nations, with registrations in England up 17.3% to account for more than eight in 10 (86.6%) UK deliveries. Demand in Scotland and Northern Ireland also rose, with registrations up 34.9% and five per cent respectively, while deliveries in Wales fell by 7.5% following a strong period of fleet renewal in the first quarter of this year.

Meanwhile, rising demand and easing supply chain restrictions helped HGV registrations grow by 17.1% in the first half of 2023 to 22,691 units.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “HGV fleet renewal has flourished, finally beating pre-pandemic levels with five straight quarters of growth. Growing confidence for fleet investment is also translating into new zero emission truck demand, demand which must grow still faster if the UK’s green goals are to be achieved. Accelerating this transition, however, requires dedicated HGV charging and refuelling infrastructure and incentives to encourage uptake and depot upgrades. Doing so can help Britain become the world’s first decarbonised truck sector. There is no time to delay.”