UK commercial vehicle production declines in February

The number of commercial vehicles built in the UK fell by 21.6% in February, as supply constraints restricted production.

A total of 6,491 vans, trucks, taxis, buses and coaches were produced in UK factories last month, figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) show.

The decline follows a large rise in February last year and, last month, the best January performance in a decade. In the year to date, 15,790 units have been built, up 4.3% on the first two months of 2022

Volumes are set to increase significantly over the full year, according to the SMMT, notably so once a major new electric van plant comes on stream.

February saw the number of CVs produced for overseas markets decrease by 18.6% to 3,460 units – with some 90.3% destined for the EU. Output for the domestic market fell more steeply, down 24.7% to 3,031 units.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “Following last year’s strong growth and a bumper start to 2023, February’s decline in commercial vehicle output is disappointing. The fall should, however, be temporary as additional production begins later in the year.

“UK automotive manufacturers continue to show resilience against persistent supply chain and economic challenges and will push to deliver the latest and cleanest CVs to customers at home and abroad. But success isn't yet guaranteed, so we look now to government to provide a framework of measures that boost the industry's long-term competitiveness and encourage inward investment to drive electrification for this vital sector.”