Commercial vehicle manufacturing grew 6.1 per cent in June, with 7,769 vehicles leaving UK production lines, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.
However, output for the first six months is down 5.3 per cent on last year. This is entirely due to slower UK demand which is down 14.9 per cent at 13,589 units. Vehicles for export in the first half were up 0.2 per cent at 27,873 units.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “These latest results once again demonstrate the importance of exports to commercial vehicle manufacturing in the UK. Overseas demand for the high-tech, ultra low and, increasingly, zero emission vehicles we produce has been the major driver of production so far this year, and with the vast majority of exports destined for the EU, maintaining free and frictionless trade is vital for the continued success of the sector.”
