CV manufacturing returns to growth in December 2014

Output fell 19.7% in 2014, but the SMMT believes the month of growth heralds a bright future.

Growing demand at home helped to drive December growth, despite deflated export market.

‘The growth of commercial vehicle manufacturing output in December represents a turning point in the sector’s fortunes,’ commented Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive.

‘A ramping up of new model production, as well as a thriving home market, is expected to yield a stronger 2015, while the effects of restructuring in 2013 will no longer be felt.’

CV manufacturing	Dec-13	Dec-14	% Change	YTD-13	YTD-14	% Change
Total	5,163	5,815	12.6%	88,110	70,731	-19.7%
Home	1,041	2,891	177.7%	40,200	35,909	-10.7%
Export	4,122	2,924	-29.1%	47,910	34,822	-27.3%
% export	79.8%	50.3%		54.4%	49.2%