Registrations of new heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) rose 5.3% to 46,231 units in 2016, according to figures released by SMMT, marking the sector’s third consecutive year of growth. The year ended on a positive note, with 13,555 new HGVs registered in Q4 – a 2.3% improvement on the same period in 2015.
UK HGV Registrations |
|||||
Quarter |
Q4-16 |
Q4-16 |
% Change |
||
Rigids 6.0-16t |
2,879 |
|
2,435 |
|
18.2 |
Rigids < 16t |
4,073 |
|
4,260 |
|
-4.4 |
All Rigids |
6,952 |
|
6,695 |
|
3.8 |
2-axle artics |
935 |
|
1,089 |
|
-14.1 |
3+-axle artics |
5,668 |
|
5,466 |
|
3.7 |
Year-to-date |
YTD-16 |
YTD-15 |
% Change |
||
Rigids 6.0-16t |
9,870 |
|
8,117 |
|
21.6 |
Rigids < 16t |
17,012 |
|
14,852 |
|
14.5 |
All Artics |
19,346 |
|
20,920 |
|
-7.5 |
Rigid vehicles continued to fuel the market throughout 2016, with both the 6-16T and >16T segments experiencing double-digit growth – up 21.6% and 14.5% respectively. The artics segment, meanwhile, ended the year down by -7.5%, but in the fourth quarter bucked the downward trend set earlier in the year, rising by 0.7% as an uplift in demand for 3+ axle artics compensated for a decline in 2 axle vehicles.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “Another year of growth for the HGV market in 2016 is a positive sign for the sector, particularly as it follows such an exceptionally strong 2015. HGVs are essential for transporting vital goods around the country and their demand provides a barometer for the UK economy, so these results are certainly welcome. Looking ahead, we must ensure business uncertainty is minimised so that this success continues.”
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