UK CV manufacturing sees another fall

Date: Wednesday, February 28, 2018 | Author: Sean Keywood

SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes

UK commercial vehicle manufacturing fell for the fifth consecutive month in January, according to figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

A total of 6,088 vans, trucks, buses and coaches were built in Britain last month, representing a year-on-year decrease of 18.8%,

According to the SMMT, this fall was due to economic and political uncertainty exacerbating the sector’s usual fluctuating production cycles.

Output for both domestic and export markets saw major declines, with volumes falling by 19.7% and 18.5% respectively.

However, overseas demand continued to drive demand overall, with 67.9% of CVs built in the UK heading overseas.

SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes said that to boost the sector, more detail about trading arrangements post-Brexit was urgently required.

He said: “January’s decline in UK commercial vehicle production continues 2017’s downward trend, and is yet further evidence of falling confidence in the sector.

“To restore certainty to manufacturers and operators, encourage fleet investment and keep trade flowing freely with our key global customers – most of which are in the EU – we need urgent clarity on the future trading arrangements between Britain and Europe."

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