Exports drive November CV production to new highs

• UK commercial vehicle production surges 42.9% in November to 11,343 units, the 11th month of consecutive growth in 2022.
• Overseas demand grows by 89.4%, while production for the domestic market falls by -9.9%.
• Year-to-date output reaches 96,890 units, 45.1% above the same period last year.

UK commercial vehicle (CV) manufacturing grew by 42.9% in November, with 11,343 vans, buses, trucks, coaches and taxis rolling off British factory lines, according to the latest figures released today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). It marked the highest total output for the penultimate month of the year since 2011,¹ rounding off the 11^th consecutive month of increased production this year.

Growth was driven by overseas deliveries, which have seen double-digit increases throughout the year, rising by 89.4% to 7,990 units in November – some 92.6% of which were destined for Europe. Meanwhile, production for the UK fell by -9.9% in the month, highlighting the importance of ensuring the UK remains a globally competitive location for production and trade.

As a result of continued strong demand, total UK CV manufacturing is up 45.1% so far in 2022, with 96,890 units built in Britain to date. Robust overseas demand means exports have increased 72.4% to 59,261 units during the 11-month period, while production for domestic buyers has risen by 16.2%, to 37,629 units. This represents the best January to November period since 2012,² and is 21.1% higher than pre-pandemic five-year average.³

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “Yet another month of growth in commercial vehicle output is good news for the wider UK industry and demonstrates how well-placed this critical sector is to supporting the British economy. A greater contribution is expected next year, but we cannot be complacent. Measures are needed to ensure Britain remains a globally competitive location for production, trade and investment to sustain long-term growth amid a period of complex economic challenges.”

Notes to editors
¹ November 2011: 11,380 units.
² January-November 2012: 105,188 units.
³ Pre-pandemic five-year average, January-November: 80,021 units.

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