UK commercial vehicle (CV) production nearly doubled year-on-year in August, with production in the month at the highest level for a decade, new figures have revealed.

CV production grew by 93% in August, with 6,132 new vans, buses, trucks, coaches and taxis leaving British factories, according to figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Production volumes almost doubled compared with the same month last year, when production lines and semiconductor supplies suffered from Covid-related disruption.

Production was at the highest level for August since 2012, with strong growth for vans, as well as trucks and buses. Exports continued their double-digit growth this year, increasing by 78% to 3,667 units, some 93% of which were destined for the EU. Meanwhile, production for the domestic market more than doubled, up 120% compared with the same month last year, reaching 2,465 units.

Overall production has risen by 50% in 2022, at 64,828 units – some 19% higher than the pre-pandemic five-year average, resulting in the best first eight months of a year since 2012. The continued growth over the year is a result of strong order books amid robust demand from fleet operators, with Britain’s CV manufacturers demonstrating resilience and the capacity to deliver for home and overseas markets in the face of major global supply disruptions and economic challenges.

“Despite the toughest operating conditions in living memory, the UK’s commercial vehicle manufacturing output continues to grow, fuelled by strong demand and supported by easing disruption,” said Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive. “However, spiralling energy costs pose a long-term threat to the sector and its efforts to deliver zero emission transport. Government measures will provide short-term respite, but we need long-term action that will restore stability and boost our international competitiveness.”