New data released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has highlighted a marginal reduction in the UK's commercial vehicle (CV) output in April.

According to the latest SMMT update, the volume of CVs being produced by UK manufacturers fell annually by 0.9 per cent in April this year in comparison to the same month of 2015.

However, it was not all bad news for the automotive and fleet sectors, as the level of production in the first four months of the year actually remained up by 0.4 per cent when compared to the same period last year.

The main drivers of this change were shown to be increasing demand for CVs from domestic purchasers, with an annual upturn in sales to UK buyers of 13.6 per cent. At the same time though, the level of demand for exports overseas was down by 11.9 per cent – creating an almost balanced month in terms of overall trade.

Responding to these latest results, SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes said: "Although April saw a slight decrease in CV production, the sector continues to perform well with positive year-to-date figures.

"Following the substantial rise in volumes last year, we can expect production growth to ease slightly over coming months. However, with continued demand for British-built vans and trucks at home and around the world, the sector's outlook is positive."