According to figures published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), Commercial vehicle (CV) manufacturing output grew by more than a quarter (25.9%) in September, the latest month for which figures are available.

Production bounced back to growth following a decline in the traditional low volume ‘summer shutdown’ month of August.

Exports continued to dominate output, accounting for 63.3% of everything made in September, as volumes rose by 37.2% to a total of 9,276 units. In line with the long-term trend, the EU took the bulk of shipments (98.7%), reinforcing the need for smooth trade across the Channel. Production for UK buyers also rose, by 10.1% to 5,367 units.

In the year to date, UK CV plants have produced 93,447 units, a rise of 8.5% on 2023 and the best first nine months since 2008, after supply issues that blighted the second quarter dissipated in Q3. Exports have driven overall growth, up 15.1%, more than offsetting a 2.5% decline in output for the domestic market.