Demand for new heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) grew for the second year running with UK registrations up 13.5% in 2023, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
A further 46,227 HGVs joined UK roads last year, making 2023 the best year since 2019.
Meanwhile, electric and hydrogen registrations were up by 265.6% to 234 units.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said: “Two years of growing demand for the very latest, fuel efficient trucks amid testing times reflects these vehicles’ importance to the British economy – and with some HGVs facing the same 2035 end of sale date as cars and vans, the sector is also critical to our green goals. Increasing availability of electric and hydrogen models – and record demand for them – is encouraging market growth but operators need cast-iron confidence to switch. More than ever, government must compel truck infrastructure rollout and provide a signal that the time to invest is now.”
The SMMT also reported that the new bus, coach and minibus market grew by 44.6% to 4,932.
