Bus and coach registrations rise
UK new bus and coach registrations rose 15.8% in the first quarter of 2020, with demand rising to 1,403 units.
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) says growth could have been even stronger, with solid demand in the first two months before the coronavirus lockdown measures introduced partway through March slowed registrations.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “The boost in bus and coach registrations at the start of the year was near erased by lockdown measures introduced in March. As we expect this trend to continue into the second quarter, manufacturers and the wider sector are rightly concerned with what happens next.
“Bus operators are working tirelessly to provide safe and essential transport services for those on the frontline of the pandemic, and this needs to continue as the nation starts to exit lockdown. To help safeguard the future of the industry, we need the funding promised earlier in the year to be made available now, and a clear and comprehensive plan for the sector that boosts operator confidence and thereby encourages fleet renewal.”
