Heavy goods vehicle sales rise despite EV slump
Heavy goods vehicle sales were up in the third quarter for the first time since the second quarter of 2024.
Figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders revealed growth of 7.2% to 9,941 units between July and September, although year-to-date sales are 3.8% down compared to the same period in 2025.
Despite overall growth though, registrations of zero-emission HGVs fell by 50.7% to account for just 1.1% of the market. Year-to-date, demand is down 30.9% to just one per cent.
The SMMT believes capital investment to acquire vehicles and develop the depot infrastructure remains a significant barrier to electric sales and has now called for a national infrastructure strategy to grow operator confidence, alongside a multi-technology approach to CO2 reduction.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “A recovery in new HGV registrations after two years of falling demand is a welcome boost for the sector, albeit from a low base.
“The decline in zero-emission registrations, however, underlines the volatility and fragility of the transition in a sector with complex operating requirements, with market share still stuck at just one in 100 new trucks.
“Accelerating decarbonisation will require action on all fronts: boosting operator confidence, removing barriers to investment and embracing every technology that can cut emissions on the road to a fully zero-emission market.”
