Latest data from The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) shows:

• Commercial vehicle registrations rise 17.4% in May to 31,922 units.
• Fifth consecutive monthly uplift for truck market, while vans hit 150,000 registrations record.
• Largest gains in heavier ends of each market segment as operator efficiency drive continues.

“It is an indication of just how strongly the commercial vehicle sector has performed in recent months that May’s 17.4% rise in registrations is actually the lowest so far in 2015,” said Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive. “Van market growth in particular remains robust, with year-to-date registrations up by more than a fifth passing the 150,000 mark in May for the first time on record.

“Truck demand is also up by a staggering 35.9% as fleet operators continue to push for maximum space and efficiency. The biggest gains in the month were again made in the heavier ends of the van and rigid truck markets, with a 35.6% fall in two-axle artics balanced by a 35.6% rise in those with three axles.”