Commercial vehicle registrations down 8.1% in October

Commercial vehicle registrations fell 8.1% in October to 21,661 units, rolling year down 0.9% to 293,312.

Truck registrations dipped to 3,867 units, down 8.1% in the month, but rolling year up 16.3% at 47,352.

Van registrations are down in October to 17,794 units, rolling year down 3.6%, with 245,960 registrations.

"SMMT recently updated its forecast for light van registrations, suggesting a 6.5% drop in van volumes for 2012, a situation reflected by the weak October market that fell 8.1% versus 2011," said Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive. "Despite almost 10% decline in the month, trucks have performed well in 2012, up 13% for the year-to-date after significant growth in the rigid sector earlier this year."