The UK’s bus, coach, and minibus market has recorded its highest annual performance since 2008, according to data released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
Demand across all segments was strong in 2024, with a 70.1% surge in registrations led to 8,390 buses joining UK roads in 2024, making it the largest bus market in Europe.
This growth in the market reflects increased operator confidence and government support for zero-emission technologies, the trade body said.
Minibus deliveries more than doubled, increasing by 102.5% to 4,816 registrations, accounting for 57.4% of the market.
Single and double-decker bus deliveries also rose, with increases of 22.5% to 1,973 units and 69.6% to 1,601 units, respectively.
Registrations in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland increased by 77.2%, 184.9%, and 52.4%, respectively.
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However, Scotland saw a decline of 15.6%. England, with its larger population, accounted for 87.4% of all vehicle deliveries.
The zero-emission bus fleet has become a key part of the UK’s net zero goals, maintaining its position as Europe’s largest ZEV bus market by volume.
Last year, 1,570 electric or hydrogen units entered service, a 35.5% increase driven by more model availability. ZEVs made up 43.9% of new single and double-decker bus registrations.
SMMT said the UK’s bus fleet plays a crucial role in sustainable mass transport solutions.
The sector’s commitment to zero-emission mobility is evident in the expansion of the Zero Emission Bus Regional Area scheme, it added.
With the second phase of funding awarded, more zero-emission bus deliveries are expected this year.
SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes said: “Two years of growth and a 16-year high have cemented the recovery of Britain’s bus sector, with passenger numbers continuing to rise alongside increasing deliveries of new zero-emission buses.
“Government funding is helping deliver this standout performance and, as Europe’s largest zero-emission bus market, we are well on our way to achieving our net zero goals, improving air quality and providing sustainable public transport in every region.”
SMMT has also reported a rise in demand for used battery-electric vehicles, with sales increasing by 57.4% to a record 188,382 units, capturing a 2.5% market share, up from 1.7% in 2023.
Plug-in hybrids and hybrids also saw growth, with sales rising 32.2% to 92,120 units and 39.3% to 306,114 units, respectively.
The SMMT highlighted that the 43.3% increase in used EV transactions reflects the growing demand and diverse options in the EV market.
