The UK truck market grew by 9.6% in 2022, according the latest SMMT HGV registration figures. The recovery from the Coronavirus lockdown, followed by the supply chain issues is well under way, with a total UK market size of 40,716 during the year, compared with the 2021 figure of 37,163. However, there’s still a way to go to reach the pre-pandemic level of 48,535 in 2019.
Although all weight classes have increased, by far the biggest growth in 2022 has been in sales of 3-axle tractors, up 24.5% compared with the previous year. The overall figure for rigids is almost static, although a 4.4% decline in the 6-16t sector was compensated for by an increase in the number of heavier rigids. Looking at the most popular body types, curtainsiders are up noticeably, with smaller increases for tippers and RCVs, while box vans are down slightly.
Turning to the market by brand, DAF Trucks is still the runaway leader, increasing its share by a full percentage point to 32.1%, its 13,068 registrations up from last year’s 11,547. The chase for second place sees Volvo reversing positions with Scania, with Mercedes-Benz best of the rest. The only one of the Big Seven to lose out is MAN, dropping both volume and share. The figures for increase in market share will cause some celebration in Warwick as both Volvo and Renault Trucks increased year-on-year share by over 18%, although in terms of volume, the Swedes are still outselling the French by more than two to one. The remaining member of the top group, Iveco has increased its numbers and is now just outselling MAN.
• All of the leading manufacturers will be exhibiting at this year’s Road Transport Expo, which takes place at Stoneleigh NAEC on June 28-30. It’s FREE to attend, and registrations are now open.
