Demand for rigid trucks has grown 47.1% year-on-year to drive an overall HGV sales increase of 19.2%, latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders have shown.

The figures show that, in total, 10,363 HGVs were registered in Q1 this year, compared to 8,697 in the same period last year.

Of those sold so far this year, 6,468 were rigids: 2,169 between six to 16-tonnes, with 4,299 greater than 16 tonnes. These were 45.1% and 48.1% greater than the numbers registered in the same period last year.

Demand for three-axle artics dropped 10.2% to 3,521.

Mike Hawes, chief executive, of the SMMT, said, “This is a positive start to the year for the heavy truck market, with demand having stabilised following the regulatory upheaval seen in 2014.

"Large rigids saw more moderate growth than at the end of 2015 – a sign that the sector is set for a continued, steady period of growth.”

Tractors were the most popular body type for HGVs in the first three months of the year, accounting for 38% of the HGVs that hit British roads in Q1.