Truck registrations increased 38.6% to 2,518 units, led by pent-up demand in the market. The van market also experienced an uplift, up 21.7% to 22,049 units.
UK van and truck registrations: 2014 and % change on 2013
| January | % change | Year-to-date | % change | Rolling year | % change | |
| Vans | 22,049 | 21.7% | 22,049 | 21.7% | 325,613 | 19.2% |
| Trucks | 2,518 | 38.6% | 2,518 | 38.6% | 42,170 | -23.5% |
| Total | 24,567 | 23.2% | 24,567 | 23.2% | 367,783 | 12.0% |
‘The truck market posted a strong return to form in January. Changes to Euro Standards and Type Approval Regulations in 2014 affected demand last year, and now we are starting to see a return to business as usual,’ said Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive.
‘The number of vans registered this month has once again increased, reflecting raised levels of business confidence and demand for a range of efficient, well equipped models. Successes in both markets have seen the total commercial vehicle market grow significantly for a ninth consecutive month.’
The figures were greeted by the National Franchised Dealers Association, which represents commercial vehicle and franchised car retailers across the UK.
'It is positive to see that the truck market has finally returned to form in January, helping the overall commercial vehicle market grow,' said Sue Robinson, director of the NFDA.
Robinson continued: 'After a suppressed demand for HGV trucks in 2014 following the introduction of Euro-6 and Type-Approval legislation, this month’s figures will no doubt bring back dealer confidence. In autumn 2014, many dealers reported a higher order-take for new chassis, and it seems that the registrations for the New Year have meant that many operators have waited to improve their vehicles residual values by taking delivery in the New Year.
'The most significant improvement came from the 3 axle tractor market – recording a 121% increase, and double registrations to 968 units compared to just 438 in January 2014. This indicates that the competition in the supermarket sector has not weakened the demand for deliveries.
'Sales of vans continued to show strong confidence in the economy in both retail and business sectors. Demand was strongest in the mid-size (2.0 – 2.5t) sector, where many of these vehicles are used in service industries.
'The NFDA are pleased to see the truck market is on the road to recovery and this month’s figures overall could mean a more well balanced truck market in 2015.'