The latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) show that van and truck registrations reached a record high between January and March of this year. The number of trucks and vans registered in the three months reached 108,456; the highest quarter received on record.æ The figures represent a real boost for a sector that had suffered _ as many did _ during the economic downturn. Only 221,132 CVs were registered during 2009_ down from 388,488 in 2007.æ The past 12 months, however, have already seen 384,120 registrations and it's expected that demand will continue. Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: 'Commercial vehicles are crucial to the functioning of Britain's economy and these latest figures paint a very encouraging picture. 'As business confidence grows, demand for the latest vans and trucks is now back to pre-recession levels _ outpacing the rest of Europe. This year's Commercial Vehicle Show promises to mirror this success, with a huge range of new products on show.î GDP is growing and consumers are currently spending more on goods and services.æ As a result, they're more able to invest in vehicles to deliver them.æ Some CV operators are currently returning to the market having held off new purchases during the recession. Demand for vans is particularly high at the moment, with home deliveries across the UK growing.æ 97,775 vehicles were registered within the last year, an increase of 22.3 per cent on the previous year. Commercial vehicles continue to play a crucial role in the British economy, with 4.4 million vans and trucks operating across Britain's roads.
