SMMT: UK Van and Truck Registrations Showing Mixed Fortunes
Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders registration figures suggest the UK’s slow upturn in light commercial vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes continued in April 2010, but trucks remained in the downward trend experienced since the last quarter of 2008. “UK van registrations rose in April, continuing the welcome growth over the first quarter of 2010,” said Paul Everitt, chief executive at the SMMT. “Demand for trucks is still running well below pre-recession levels and continues to reflect weak demand and a lack of business confidence. As our new government establishes itself, the priority must be sustaining and strengthening the economic recovery with particular focus on encouraging the availability of more and better priced finance.” Of course, the supposition that there will be a government able to establish itself may come under threat after the indeterminate result of the UK election.