UK commercial vehicle production rose 4.0% in 2024, recording its best year since 2008 on the back of strong exports.
A total of 125,649 vans, trucks, taxis, buses and coaches left factory lines last year, according to new figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). That’s the highest level in 16 years – despite a subdued fourth quarter – aided by a ramp-up in production of new models and solid growth in the EU, supporting exports.
Production for export was up by 6.6% year-on-year, reaching 82,097 units. Almost two-thirds (65.3%) of output was allocated to international markets, an increase of 1.6 percentage points on the previous year. The EU accounted for 97.8% of all exports after volumes rose 10.8% to 80,291 units.
Production for the UK dipped by 0.8% – equivalent to 333 vehicles – with 43,552 British-built CVs making their way onto UK roads. The SMMT said the decline highlights the need to encourage greater uptake of new CVs – especially zero-emission models – to ensure the UK stays on track to hit its environmental goals and to support investment in British automotive manufacturing.
The rise in CV production contrasts with a 13.9% fall in car volumes that saw UK vehicle production drop below one million units in 2024.
The sector is calling for fast-tracked industrial and trade strategies to keep UK manufacturing globally competitive.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, remarked: “The best British CV manufacturing performance since 2008 is testament to the sector’s agility, and, as the global pursuit of zero emission road transport intensifies, it must now adjust to new challenges.
“Anchoring automotive manufacturing in the UK will drive long-term economic growth, and that must start with creating ambitious industrial and trade strategies that deliver the competitive production base, healthy domestic market and export conditions needed to provide a return on investments.”
