Export volumes of UK-built commercial vehicles increased by a massive 188% in February, with production almost doubling, according to new data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). 

There were 12,927 vans, trucks, taxis, buses and coaches produced in the month, equating to a 98.4% uplift in volume and the best February performance since 2008.

Exports increased to 10,011 units, representing 77.4% of all commercial vehicles made in the month, with more than nine in 10 (97.6%) destined for the EU.

Conversely, output for the domestic market fell for the second month in a row, down 4% to 2,916 units, although this represented a decline of just 123 vehicles.

Year-to-date, some 24,683 commercial vehicles have been built in Britain, up some 56.4% on the first two months of 2023.

Exports have driven this growth, up 104.5% to 17,976 units, an increase of 9,184, while volumes for the home market have fallen by 279 to 6,707 units.

Mike Hawes, chief executive of the SMMT, said: “CV manufacturing has kickstarted the year with two months of impressive growth as robust overseas demand for British-built vans continues.

“The challenge now is to maintain this success amidst fierce global competition, accelerating production of zero emission vehicles to enable the fast paced delivery of these critical models. Strong performing economies at home and abroad will be key to this ambition.”