ACT Research: Trailer Orders Jump Again in September

Trailer order saw another big leap in September, with net trailer orders increasing 82% over August with 51,208 units.

The increase was also 174% higher than September 2019’s count, as well as 140% better year-over-year.

“The confluence of several factors is evident in September’s third-highest monthly net volume in history,” said Frank Maly, Director–CV Transportation Analysis and Research at ACT Research. He added, “Pent-up demand is one factor, as we’re now seeing capex release that was curtailed earlier this year by COVID-driven uncertainty.”

Another factor, according to Maly, is lower build rates, which are pushing fleets to submit their orders faster, rather than gamble that any new units might not be delivered until well into 2021.

“In addition to fleets, dealers could also be worrying about the timing of stocking orders; conversations have included mention of dealers entering the fray in preparation for next year,” he adds. “Further solid numbers are likely in the near-term, as the industry enters what has normally been its usual ‘order season’.”

ACT Research also announced plans to release a new multi-client study focusing on electrification of the commercial vehicle industry slated for 2021. The study will include unit sales for the U.S. and Canada, annually from 2020 to 2030, with single-year outlooks for 2035 and 2040. Class 8 truck and Classes 4-7 truck and bus segments will be included, as well as step vans, conventional and low cab forward trucks, RV, school bus, yard spotter, transit bus categories, as well as the Class 8 straight, day cab, and sleeper subcategories.

The research will compare purchase and operational costs for diesel, battery, fuel cell, and hybrid powertrains in a comparative total cost of ownership framework, as well as infrastructure requirements and costs, regulation, maintenance, range, durability and vehicle and component replacement.