HGV market down while zero emission uptake holds onto slim share
New heavy goods vehicle (HGV) registrations fell by -14.7% in the second quarter of 2026, with 8,687 new trucks joining UK roads, according to the latest figures published today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). The performance pushed first half demand down -8.9% to 18,158 units, as the market continues to soften following three years of strong post-pandemic growth, with fleet operators balancing vehicle renewal against wider business cost pressures.
Demand was weak across articulated trucks, down -12.4% to 3,832 units, and rigid vehicles, down -16.4% to 4,855 units. Tractor units remained the largest segment, accounting for more than two in five new HGVs registered despite volumes falling -13.7% to 3,706 units. Uptake of box vans and curtain-sided trucks also declined, down -36.6% and -26.4% respectively, while uptake of tippers and refuse disposal vehicles bucked the overall trend, growing by 12.7% and 27.0%.
While overall market demand weakened, uptake of zero emission HGVs rose slightly during the quarter. Registrations increased by 4.7%, although at 90 units, this represents a small volume increase, raising market share from 0.8% to 1.0% compared with the same period last year. Nevertheless, ZEV HGV volumes have fallen -6.6% in the first six months compared with last year, when uptake was supported by ZEHID funding. As a result, market share for the year remains static at 0.9%, highlighting the scale of the challenge facing the sector’s transition.
Manufacturers are delivering a growing range of ZEV models, but uptake remains constrained by the higher upfront cost of vehicles and challenges around depot and network infrastructure. Long waits for grid connections and limited public charging provision continue to hamper adoption despite government support through measures such as the Plug-In Truck Grant, Depot Charging Scheme and the ZEHID programme. Faster grid connections, accelerated depot planning approvals and a long-term national infrastructure strategy would help support uptake across a sector characterised by diverse vehicle types and operating requirements, while also boosting operator confidence.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “After three bumper years of fleet renewal, the HGV market is now under pressure. The fact that zero emission truck uptake is outperforming the market is a crumb of comfort but at less than 1% of the market it is not a cause for celebration. Government support has helped incubate this emerging market, but if the sector is to decarbonise at pace, operators need confidence – and that means addressing key barriers to investment and a technology-neutral approach that recognises the diversity and complexity of HGV use.”
