Commercial vehicle production sees further monthly growth

CV production in the UK grew by 10.7% in October, rounding off 10 consecutive months of growth this year.

The SMMT said 8,740 trucks, vans, buses and taxis rolled off British factory lines last month, marking the best October since 2019.

Exports increased by 50.2% to 5,905 units and the business group said this was down to strong demand from overseas markets, with 5,579 destined for Europe.

It added that production for the UK fell sharply, down 28.4% compared with the same month last year, as firms focused on fulfilling strong export orders.

Read more

Commercial vehicle production at highest level since 2011, SMMT reveals

Battery electric commercial vehicle volumes soar despite “big questions” over charging

Commercial vehicle manufacturers report best May figures in 10 years as export market surges

Despite what it described as “turbulent global supply chains”, the SMMT said overall UK production this year is up 45.5%, with 85,547 CVs built since January.

Overseas demand means that exports have risen by 70.0%, to 51,271 units, while production for domestic buyers is up 19.6%, to 34,276 units.

Mike Hawes, SMMT CE, said, “Another month of growth for CV manufacturers is good news for the wider industry as it shows how the UK is well placed to build high-quality vehicles which support jobs, growth and exports.

“While the industry looks to 2023 with some optimism, we cannot be complacent as sustained long-term growth is dependent on favourable operating conditions and a competitive framework for automotive manufacturing.”