Bus, coach and minibus sales enjoy first quarter of growth
Bus, coach and minibus sales rose 3.1% to 2,065 units in the third quarter of 2026, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.
This is the first quarter of growth in 2026, with year-to-date volumes down 32.1% compared to the 17-year high recorded in 2025.
Growth was driven by double-deck buses, which was up 64.2% to 729 units, although minibus uptake fell by 7.9% to 858 units and single-deck bus and coach registrations declined by 23.6% to 478 units.
Meanwhile, zero emission bus rollout was up 11.9% to 630 units, claiming 30.5% of the market compared to 28.1% in the third quarter of 2025. Across the year to date, zero emission buses account for 31.1% of registrations.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “A return to growth in new bus rollout after a bumper 2025 reflects the sector’s increasing momentum, with significant government backing and a wide range of cutting-edge models entering service.
“Manufacturers are investing heavily in zero emission technology that can meet almost every bus operator’s need – but access to incentives and depot grid connections remain key barriers. With continued support, the new bus market will continue to lead decarbonisation in the UK – and in Europe.”
