Zero emission HGV uptake has continued to rise, quadrupling by 341.2% to 225 units in the third quarter, according to data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
A new record volume for zero emission HGVs, it means such vehicles also achieved a record 2.4% market share. The significant quarterly demand has driven year-to-date ZEV volumes to 408 units, up 145.8% compared with the same period in 2024.
According to the SMMT, it was “a significant achievement which reflects Britain’s position as Europe’s second largest zero emission HGV market by volume”.
Success in the category has been driven by “impressive product rollout”, it said, with more than two dozen models now available covering a wide range of operator needs. The SMMT added the market “could grow faster with the right support”, which it highlighted as access to charging and refuelling infrastructure – especially for depot-based operators.
It argued the Depot Charging Scheme, which it welcomed, needed to see HGV depots fast-tracked for grid connections, using processes already provided for data centres, wind farms and solar schemes.
The society added: “With a clear route toward ZEV and infrastructure investment, operators who already face tight margins will be more confident to decarbonise their fleet which is fundamental to the country’s Net Zero ambitions”.
Data also reveled that overall new HGV registrations had declined by 14.5%, which comes amid a challenging economic backdrop, but also the SMMT said “the natural ebb and flow of fleet renewal cycles following three years of sustained post-pandemic growth.”
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said:
“New HGV uptake continues to normalise amid a tough economic backdrop so while another quarter of decline is unsurprising, returning to growth is important to keep businesses moving via the very latest, greenest models.
“Industry continues to invest significantly in zero emission rollout, and rising operator uptake is positive – but more substantial volume growth depends on infrastructure rollout.
“Fast-tracking depot grid connections, in particular, is critical to help operators plan and invest – and for manufacturers to continue delivering the green growth Britain needs.”
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