SMMT reports UK Bus Sector Surges Growth in 2024
The UK's bus sector is experiencing a remarkable resurgence, with new figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) revealing a 61.7% increase in the number of new buses, coaches and minibuses hitting the roads in the second quarter of 2024.
The growth, marking the fifth consecutive quarter of expansion, highlights the sector's recovery following the pandemic-induced slump in ridership and reflects renewed confidence among operators.
Government measures fuel sector revival
The recent uptick in new vehicle registrations is attributed to government initiatives aiming to stimulate demand. Key among these is the Bus Fare Cap Grant, which has played a crucial role in encouraging operators to invest in fleet renewal.
The steady rise in year-on-year demand since early 2023 highlights the positive impact of these measures as the industry gradually recovers from the challenges of the past few years.
Minibuses and double-decker buses lead the charge
A significant surge in demand for minibuses and double-decker buses drove the growth in Q2 2024. Minibuses, which are essential for providing transport services across the country —from schools to social care and third-sector organisations — saw an impressive 97.2% increase, with 903 new units registered.
Double-decker buses saw a twofold increase in deliveries, up 100.5% to 387 units. Single-deck buses experienced a more modest rise of 12.1%, reflecting steady demand across different vehicle types.
Regional growth varies across the UK
While the overall UK bus sector is rising, growth has been uneven across different regions. England saw the most substantial increase, with fleet renewal up 69.6% to 1,557 units. Northern Ireland posted significant growth, with demand rising by 54.8% to 48 units. Wales led the charge with the largest percentage increase, with a seven-fold rise to 116 units compared to just 12 registered in the same period last year.
However, Scotland bucked the trend, experiencing a 36.0% decline to 105 units, following a solid second quarter in 2023.
Zero emission vehicles: Leading the charge to net zero
A notable highlight of the sector's growth is the increasing adoption of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs). Registrations of the latest green buses rose by 36.3% in Q2 2024, with 424 new units hitting the road. The surge places the UK at the forefront of the European green bus transition, making it the largest ZEV bus market by volume in Europe, ahead of Italy, Germany and France.
Government commitments to net zero, such as England's Zero Emission Bus Regional Area funding and the Scottish Zero Emission Bus Challenge Fund, have been instrumental in driving this progress.
Challenges and the road ahead
Despite the positive strides, the transition to zero-emission buses is challenging. Adoption rates vary across different regions and operators, with smaller and rural bus operators facing significant hurdles in funding new vehicle purchases and the necessary infrastructure upgrades.
Addressing these disparities is essential to ensure a uniform transition across the UK.
SMMT's latest position paper, Next Stop, Net Zero: The Route To A Decarbonised UK Bus Market, calls for a clear timetable and long-term support to guide all regions, operators and passengers towards a greener future.
The benefits of a fully decarbonised bus fleet are substantial, offering improved local air quality, reduced noise pollution and a more enjoyable passenger experience.
A Boost for economy and society
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, emphasised the broader impact of the sector's growth: "A boost in the uptake of new buses which provide mass mobility across the nation is also a boost for our economy and society, given the vital role these vehicles play — from commuting and staycations to transport for schools, charities and health and social care.
"As fleets continue to go green, with ambitious incentives and infrastructure in place, buses and the communities that depend on them could be the UK's first to reach net zero."
As the UK bus sector continues its upward trajectory, the focus on sustainability and innovation promises a brighter, greener future for public transportation nationwide.
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