HGV registrations are down by 11.2% in the second quarter of 2025, according to the latest figures published by SMMT (Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders).
The data shows just 10,185 new trucks were registered during this period. The dip in demand saw 4,295 tractor units registered, an 8.1% drop compared to last year. Tractor units still make up more than two fifths of the market but box vans saw the largest decline of 33.1% with only 905 new units registered.
Similarly, tippers were down by 19.6% to 795 units and curtainsider demand dropped by 24.2% to account for 781 trucks. The only truck type that saw a notable increase was refuse collection vehicles with an 11.4% rise to 614.
As to be expected, the zero emission HGV market grew significantly compared to last year but this still only accounts for 183 new zero emission trucks registered in the first six months of this year. Compared to the first half of 2024, zero emission HGV registrations were up 59.1% but this illustrates a 0.9% market share.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said, “Another quarter of decline in the new HGV market is unsurprising as the market continues to normalise, but a return to growth must happen soon given this sector is a crucial driver of the UK economy.
“The highest first-half market share yet for zero-emission trucks is positive, albeit it still represents less than one percent of the market with many operators just one buying cycle from end of sale deadlines. New depot infrastructure funding is welcome, and grid reform must now follow so that operators can get the chargepoints they need to confidently invest in their fleets.”
The SMMT is calling for depots to be prioritised for grid connections in the same way data centres, wind and solar farms have been promised. The organisation believes a long term national strategy outlining public infrastructure suitable for HGVs will be a key component in enabling fleets to plan for zero emission vehicles.
