Irish commercial vehicle market recorded a mixed performance in March, with solid growth in light commercial vehicles, while heavy trucks remained in decline on a year-to-date basis and buses showed sharp, order-driven increases.
March 2026
According to the latest SIMI report on the Irish commercial vehicle market, light commercial vehicles (LCVs) continued to drive the market, with registrations rising by 14.17% to 4,488 units in March. Year-to-date volumes reached 15,679 units, representing a 17.69% increase, highlighting sustained demand from business users and fleet operators.
The heavy commercial vehicle (HCV) segment posted a modest increase in March, with registrations up by 10.22% to 302 units, according to SIMI data. However, the broader trend remains negative, with year-to-date volumes at 971 units, declining by 6.45% compared with the same period last year, reflecting continued caution in the heavy-duty transport sector.
The bus segment recorded the strongest relative growth, though from a lower base. March registrations recorded 110 units, an increase of 243.75% year-on-year. This contributed to a year-to-date total of 288 units, up by 102.82%, underlining the impact of large fleet orders and public transport investment cycles.
Overall, the Irish commercial vehicle market in early 2026 is characterised by steady expansion in the LCV segment, ongoing pressure in heavy trucks despite recent monthly gains and significant volatility in the bus segment driven by the timing of major deliveries.
Image credit: Ryhor Bruyeu, Alamy
