More than 11,000 new heavy goods vehicles were registered in the UK in the second quarter of 2016 - a rise of 7.6%, according to figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

The performance marks the fifth quarter of consecutive growth for the sector, boosting year-to-date registrations by 12.9% to 21,434 – the highest volume for the period since 2008.

Continuing a trend set in Q1, rigids drove growth for the second quarter, with registrations of vehicles in the six-16-tonne segment and those weighing in at more than 16 tonnes experiencing significant growth, up 25.5% and 20.5% respectively.

The rise offset declining demand for three-axle artics – down 11.4% – while tractor units were the most popular body type, accounting for 39% of the HGVs that hit British roads in Q2. 

Mike Hawes, chief executive of the SMMT, said: “It’s encouraging to see HGV operators continuing to invest following the growth seen last year – the result of pent-up demand created by regulatory upheaval in 2014.

"We're now seeing fleet renewal patterns return to normal and all the signs point towards further growth, albeit at a steadier rate.

"Maintaining business confidence must now be a priority to ensure this crucial sector’s ongoing success.”