Uniroyal predicts market decline
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• Commercial vehicle market forecasts by Uniroyal Tyres, suggest that by 1990 UK production of CVs of 3.5 tonnes and above will have declined by almost one third compared to the number produced in 1984.
Over the next four years, new registrations are expected to increase by no more than 3,000 vehicles — but the importers share will grown from 44% to 53% over the same period.
There is some indication that trucks will be worked for a longer time as the total vehicle parc is forecast to increase by some 5,000 units.
Uniroyal says that "By 1990 the demand for the 16 inch, 15 inch and 20 inch tyres will have almost expired as OE fitment will have been replaced by 17.5 and 19.5 inch wheel diameter sizes."
Uniroyal has also forecast a growth in demand in the replacement market for premium and retread tyres, as Operators become more conscious of whole life costs — even though tyres represent only about 2% of running costs.
While discounting is likely to continue at the present level, a price increase of about 3% is predicted for the spring 'due to rising costs of raw material," says Uniroyal.