CV production up 18% in 2023

UK commercial vehicle (CV) production increased by 18.5% in 2023 with 120,357 vans, trucks, taxis, buses and coaches leaving factory lines.

According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), output reached its highest level in 13 years as global supply chain issues and pandemic-related challenges eased.

Exports were responsible for the bulk of growth over the year, with global demand for British-built commercial vehicles rising more than a quarter (25.8%) to 76,953 units. Almost two thirds (63.9%) of production was for overseas markets, up from 60.2% in another 13-year high.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said, “The best performance for UK CV manufacturing in more than a decade confirms the industry’s recovery and the sustained demand for our high quality vehicles. The sector continues to face challenges, not least the transformation from internal combustion engines to the next generation of technologies that will power net zero products and drive economic growth. The forthcoming Budget is another opportunity for government to get behind this critical sector, improving grid connections, increasing the availability of affordable green energy, and supporting operators to make the switch.”

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