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New '03 plate halts registrations dip
Page 16
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IIII The lure of the '03 plate saw the UK's commercial vehicle registrations increase following February's worrying reversal (CM20-26 March).
Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders chief executive Chrlstopher Macgowan says the record level of capital investment, marked by a 24% increase in registrations, is "splendid news, a clear indicator of business confidence".
In the heavy truck sector, most of the major manufacturers could afford a smile, with only Iveco and Renault showing reduced year-to-date numbers. The biggest growth was in the 12-15-tonne rigid category, which was up 42%.
In the van market, big gains by traditional major players, especiaiiy Vauxhall, were countered by the continued slide at WV, struggling to maintain two-thirds of its 2002 figures despite some headline grabbing orders (see right). Industry insiders say a last-minute preBudget spree may be responsible for one-tonne pickups seeing 42% growth. Overall, light CVs are up 14.5% on the year-to-date numbers.