Manufacturing figures for commercial vehicles paint a mixed picture

The manufacture of new UK commercial vehicles is up almost 40% on the same month in 2020, with 5,808 units being produced. But this has to be understood within the context that many plants were operating at reduced capacity in the summer months of 2020, owing to restrictions put in place by the COVID-19 pandemic

PRODUCTION DOWN BY A FIFTH COMPARED TO PRE-PANDEMIC

However, overall commercial vehicles production for the first half of the year is more than a fifth (20.9%) below the average recorded over the previous five years, as production was impacted by a prolonged UK-wide lockdown from January to March, ongoing shortages within the supply chain and workers increasingly requiring to self-isolate.

EXPORTS FALL BY HALF

Exports of commercial vehicles over the year to date fell to 48.1% of production, down from 57.4% over the average recorded before the pandemic. Overseas markets underwent their own COVID-related restrictions, affecting business confidence, but domestic demand increased in support of the UK’s economic recovery.

SLOW AND STEADY RECOVERY

“After a tough start to the year, commercial vehicle production is steadily recovering against a backdrop of increased demand,” said Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, “but still remains short of previous years. The shortage of semiconductors continues to impact on output, and the sector faces a significant challenge as increasing numbers of workers find themselves being asked to self-isolate. However, van production levels remain strong, and recent long-term investment announcements will ensure the UK retains a healthy commercial vehicle manufacturing sector.”

*www.smmt.co.uk
 

Published On: 05/08/2021 16:00:29

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