July 2023 UK Commercial Vehicle Manufacturing

Thursday 31 August, 2023

2023 UK commercial vehicle (CV) manufacturing output grew 9.3% in July to reach 8,853 units, according to the latest figures published today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). The result means the industry enjoyed its busiest July since 2015, while year to date production is up by 68.0% on pre-pandemic levels.¹

Growth was driven primarily by easing supply chain challenges and an ongoing rise in export demand, which swelled by 18.9% to reach 5,392 units. The EU accounted for the vast majority of the UK’s van, truck and bus exports, receiving 94.2% of all July output sent overseas. Conversely, production for the domestic market decreased slightly, by -3.0% to 3,461 units following particularly strong growth in 2022.

Following four consecutive months of growth, commercial vehicle production year to date is now up by 15.0% on the same period in 2022, with 67,528 units produced so far, continuing the sector’s best year for output since 2011. Expansion has been driven primarily by exports, which are up 25.7% year to date to reach 43,195 units, while domestic output has held stable at 24,333 units.

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said,

This year is turning into a real success story for UK commercial vehicle production with soaring exports and a steady, stable domestic market. However, with major markets making the transition towards zero emission vehicles, production must be prepared for long-term change. To secure ongoing success, Britain urgently needs a green automotive transformation strategy that shores up skills, delivers cheaper energy and attracts investment.

Notes to editors

1 Jan-July 2019 CV production: 40,184