Buy now to avoid Euro-6 price rises

Operators can avoid the extra cost that the first generation of Euro-6 trucks are expected to attract by purchasing new Euro-5 vehicles now, claims DAF Trucks UK.

The next phase in emissions control for heavy trucks will come into force in September 2013, and operators who time their purchases correctly, can dodge the initial introduction of Euro-6.

Tony Pain, marketing director, DAF Trucks UK, says: "Historically there's been an upswing in sales in the run-up to a new Euro-standard, but the difference with the changeover from Euro-5 to Euro-6 will be the significant price increase on the trucks. This is due to the additional exhaust after-treatment systems needed to meet the strict legislation. So if operators renew their fleet now on a three-year lease and then upgrade again on a five-year lease just before September 2013, they will have missed the initial take-up, and added cost, of Euro-6."

Renault Trucks has added that manufacturers are investing large sums of money in research and development for the next-generation Euro-6 trucks, which would undoubtedly lead to a price increase.

Nigel Butler, commercial director Renault Trucks UK, adds: "For Euro-6 we are anticipating a pre-buy as operators look to capitalise on the run-out of Euro-5 vehicles in 2013. This surge in sales could mean longer lead times because manufacturers have to gear-up production cycles to meet the peak in demand."