New heavy goods vehicle (HGV) registrations declined by 2.7% in the first quarter of 2026 with 9,471 new trucks joining UK roads, according to the latest data published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
The decline follows a 1.7% rise in Q4 last year as fleet renewal continues to normalise following three years of sustained post-pandemic pent-up demand, although growth is also constrained by the challenging economic backdrop.
The contraction reflects a mixed picture for the overall market, with demand for box vans down 20.1% to 766 units compared with Q1 last year, while registrations of curtain sided trucks fell by 31.6% to 525 units. There was growth, however, in the tractor segment, with deliveries up 9.1% to 4,313 units, representing almost six in 10 (59.2%) of all new HGVs registered. Demand for tippers and refuse disposal vehicles also grew, up by 2.1% and 47.1% respectively to 865 and 765 units.
More concerningly, zero emission HGV demand fell by 16.5% year-on-year from 97 to 81 units – representing less than one percent (0.9%) of the overall market. While the decline compares marginal volumes and follows a record year for ZEV uptake in 2025, volumes must accelerate substantially if the sector is to decarbonise by the deadlines sought. Manufacturers are delivering ZEV models well ahead of natural demand with more than 40 options currently available, but tight business margins and a paucity of charging infrastructure are restricting operator demand. Costly depot upgrades and long waits for grid connections – potentially up to 15 years for larger projects – are also hampering operator confidence.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “A tough economic environment continues to hamper new HGV demand and a return to growth is needed to keep Britain moving while reducing emissions. A weak start to the year for ZEV uptake is particularly concerning, despite impressive model rollout, reflecting the substantial cost and infrastructure challenges facing operators. With government consulting on new regulation to decarbonise the sector, a realistic and long-term approach will be essential, recognising the barriers and the technological solutions necessary for reducing emissions.”
