Commercial vehicle (CV) output by UK manufacturers has risen considerably during the first three months of the year.

New figures published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) have shown a 23.6 per cent annual increase in new vehicle production in comparison to Q1 2014, while April (up 36.8 per cent) also proved an extremely positive month for the new vehicle sector.

Overall, year-to-date production volumes for both domestic and export markets stood at 32,064 units, with the home segment outperforming overseas purchases, with annual market increases of 32.1 and 15.6 per cent respectively.

Meanwhile, April's impressive result of growth of more than one-third in the new CV sector was built upon a 21.5 per cent rise in domestic sales and 50.1 per cent annual growth among international purchasers.

Responding to the results, SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes commented: "These figures are further evidence that commercial vehicle manufacturing in the UK has turned a corner after a period of restructuring.

"April's significant rise in exports is particularly encouraging, as the industry capitalises on increasing demand for vans, trucks and buses across Europe."

This latest upturn in performance continues a positive trend for growth in new CV sales, with 2014 having been an extremely positive year for sector.

Overall, the UK automotive industry is valued at more than £64 billion and provides a considerable boost to the national economy when it is performing strongly.

The sector accounts for around 11 per cent of all UK overseas exports and employs approximately 160,000 people in direct manufacturing positions, and up to 750,000 within the wider supply chain.