GROWTH: Bus market recovering
Bus and coach registrations grew for the third consecutive month in October as the market displayed further signs of recovery.
Up 13.2% to 550 units last month, the figures – released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) – also showed registrations are down 11% for year-to-date.
The purpose-built sector grew 12.2% in the month, but remains down 6.6% over the year so far.
Meanwhile, the thriving purpose-built coach sector enjoyed another fine performance, up 25.6% in the month and 15.7% for the year-to-date.
Mike Hawes, Chief Executive of the SMMT, said: “The bus and coach market saw registrations rise 13.2% in October, the third consecutive month of growth.
“This recent market strength follows a slow start to the year, with registrations lower than 2012 given the Olympics boost to last year’s figures.
“While registrations for 2013 are still down 11% overall, we are encouraged by the recovery rate and the ongoing uptake of cleaner and more efficient vehicles.”
Image courtesy of Remi Longva, with thanks.
