Truck sales still falling while vans level off

Truck registrations continued to fall in June, but the slump in van sales shows some signs of levelling off, according to the latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

The fall in truck registrations has increased steadily each month and the 2,761 units registered in June represent the biggest month-for-month decline (-47.2%, compared to June 2008) this year.

By way of contrast, June's 17,158 van registrations were 40.1% lower than in the same month last year but represent the smallest month-for-month fall this year and could indicate the underlying level of business.

Trucks have a more pronounced time delay between orders and registrations than vans which means the registration figures lag further behind sales.

The SMMT said dealers have noted an increase in enquiries, which may be due to buyers checking if prices are still falling rather than an immediately impending order, and is predicting further declines in orders post-October when Euro 5 emission regulations come into force.