The full-year report from SMMT states that British commercial vehicle production rose 4% in 2023 to 125,649 units, the highest since 2008. Growth was driven by a 6.6% increase in exports to 82,097 units, while domestic output declined by 0.8%. Industry leaders urge swift industrial and trade strategies to maintain global competitiveness.
Commercial Vehicle Production Grows According to SMMT
UK commercial vehicle (CV) production grew by 4.0% in 2024, with 125,649 vans, trucks, taxis, buses and coaches leaving factory lines, according to the latest figures published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Despite a subdued fourth quarter, output reached its highest level in 16 years – helped by a ramp-up in the production of new models and solid growth in the EU supporting exports.
The SMMT full-year report states that export production increased by 6.6%, reaching 82,097 units. Almost two-thirds (65.3%) of output was allocated to international markets, an increase of 1.6% on the previous year, demonstrating the importance of smooth trade, notably across the Channel. The EU accounted for 97.8% of all exports after volumes rose 10.8% to 80,291 units.
According to SMMT, production for the UK fell by -0.8%—equivalent to 333 vehicles—with 43,552 British-built CVs making their way onto UK roads. 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 support investment in British automotive manufacturing.
“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,” explains Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive.
