UK HGV registrations drop 15% as zero‑emission trucks stay under 1% of market

New registrations of heavy‑goods vehicles (HGVs) in the United Kingdom fell 14.7% in the second quarter of 2026, with 8,687 trucks joining the roads. While overall market demand weakened, the share of zero‑emission HGVs rose modestly to 1.0% from 0.8% a year earlier, even though total ZEV volumes were down 6.6% year‑on‑year.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) said higher upfront costs, limited depot charging infrastructure, and long waits for grid connections continue to constrain uptake despite the Plug‑In Truck Grant, Depot Charging Scheme and ZEHID programme. SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes warned that the sector needs “confidence” and a technology‑neutral approach to meet decarbonisation goals.

Policy drivers include upcoming bans on new diesel HGVs over 26 tonnes from the middle of the next decade and a requirement that all new tractor units be zero‑emission by 2040. Grants of up to £81,000 are available for electric HGV purchases, but hauliers remain hesitant, with only about 1% of new registrations being electric in the quarter.