The UK’s commercial vehicle manufacturing sector continued its recovery in August, posting a seventh consecutive month of growth, latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) show. Output for the month rose by 70.3% to 3,628 units, while year-to-date volumes were up 34.1% to 61,595.  Exports were up 85.0% on the same month last year, with demand in the home market growing by 59.6%.

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive said, “In stark comparison to last summer, when some plants took additional seasonal shutdown for retooling, this August saw CV manufacturers post impressive growth. It is particularly encouraging to see the industry continue to bounce back following a 2014 performance subdued by regulatory changes and industry restructuring. Fleet operator renewal patterns are now returning to normal, prompting strong gains in demand in both domestic and export markets.”