UK CV production just marked its best September since 2011, with an increase of 53.6% year-on-year to 11,979 units. This is a good sign and shows that recovery is underway, if slowly. Overall, year-to-date volumes are up 50.8% to 76,807, demonstrating the best yearly performance since 2012.
This is the best month for CV production to date in 2022, and has built on nine months of consecutive growth as a reaction to the demand we are seeing in both home and export markets.
The demand driving this production has mainly come from overseas, with exports up 70.4% to 7,333 units. Home demand has also improved by 32.9% to 4,646 units.
These numbers include all commercial vehicle types, including vans, buses, trucks, coaches and taxis.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “In a sector that continues to face significant challenges, Britain’s commercial vehicle manufacturers have reacted with determination to deliver the best September in more than a decade. Significant demand from overseas markets not only demonstrates the appeal of UK-built CVs, but shows the critical role this sector plays in powering the UK economy. Long-term growth, however, will depend on operator confidence and a competitive business framework for manufacturers, so the new government must take a long-term approach, addressing high energy prices and other cost impacts that hold back investment.”
Van Ninja have seen some evidence of this, with a slow increase in stock levels for our leasing team. We don’t expect to return to full vehicle availability until 2023, but there is enough variety to cover small, medium, and large options. We are beginning to see some more specialist vehicles become available, such as small and medium crew vans. Also, we expect to see some large tipper and dropside vans early in 2023.
While stock is improving, it remains limited. We advise that customers consider stock vehicles instead of waiting for their ideal van, as there are no guarantees on delivery times from manufacturers. Parts shortages continue to cause issues, and compromises may be required when looking to lease a new van.
