UK HGV registration figures for quarter two of 2019 indicated an increase by a massive 46% over last year, an unusually high leap, largely due to the implementation of the EU Smart Tachograph legislation on 15 June moving operators to pull forward vehicle purchases.
Demand for rigid and artic trucks were up 51.9% and 38.1% respectively as year to date registrations rose 34.3% with a total of 27,464 units registered so far in 2019, according to figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said, ‘A second strong quarter for truck registrations is certainly welcome news, however the swell in market size is undoubtedly due to operators choosing to expand their fleet ahead of the introduction of additional regulation. This significant performance means we may see the market level out throughout the second half of the year, especially given the role ongoing political and economic uncertainty could play in deterring further commitments to big fleet purchases.’
Quarter 2 leaders were DAF with 29.4% of the market over six tonnes, Scania jumped to second place (20.1%) ahead of Mercedes (12.8%) and Volvo (11.0%).
