Zero-emission HGV registrations fall 16.5% as overall truck market declines

New zero-emission truck uptake dropped to less than 1% of total HGV registrations in Q1.

Zero-emission HGV registrations fell by 16.5% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2026, representing less than 1% of the overall truck market, according to new data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

Overall new HGV registrations declined by 2.7% in Q1, with only 9,471 new trucks joining UK roads.

The SMMT attributed the stalling growth to challenging economic conditions, following a minor 1.7% rise in Q4 2025 as fleet renewal slowly returns to normal after three years of post-pandemic demand.

The data reveals mixed fortunes across different vehicle categories, with box van demand down 20.1% and curtain sided truck registrations falling 31.6%.

However, the tractor division grew by 9.1%, representing more than half of all new HGV registrations at 59.2%.

Demand for tippers and refuse disposal vehicles also increased by 2.1% and 47.1% respectively.

Despite a record year for zero-emission vehicle uptake in 2025, the SMMT warns that progress must advance significantly for the sector to meet decarbonisation deadlines.

The organisation claims that tight business margins and limited access to charging infrastructure are currently restricting operator demand for zero-emission trucks.