SMMT predicts uplift for subdued CV output

According to the report, the industry continues to feel effects of the 2013 restructuring, but European demand is now on the up.

‘UK commercial vehicle manufacturing figures continue to be swayed by restructuring of some operations in 2013 and the pull-forward of demand in the heavy commercial sector,’ commented Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive.

‘There are signs of optimism, however, helped by early signs of revival in European demand. This bodes well for the future as new products and investments in the CV sector come into play throughout the year,’ he added.

CV manufacturing	Mar-13	Mar-14	% Change	YTD-13	YTD-14	% Change
Total	8,027	6,604	-17.7%	23,854	19,520	-18.2%
Home	4,305	3,109	-27.8%	12,666	9,517	-24.9%
Export	3,722	3,495	-6.1%	11,188	10,003	-10.6%
% export	46.4%	52.9%		46.9%