Preliminary data for August indicates an improvement in Class 8 truck total net orders, according to the latest numbers from FTR Associates. According to FTR, orders for all major North American OEMs came in at 12,337 units, an 8.3% increase over July’s net orders and 16.8% better than August 2009. The orders closely match the six-month average of 13,000 units.
“August net orders for Class 8 vehicles came in about where we expected, very similar to July numbers,” Eric Starks, FTR president, said. “We didn't see any particular reason that they would be substantially different, and we believe for the balance of the year orders will continue to be received at comparable levels.
“Going forward,” he added, “a critical point to watch is order activity in October and November which typically sees a seasonal spike in activity. These months will set the stage for demand in 2011.”
Final data will be available later this month.
Volvo Trucks North America and Mack Trucks have both announced they will be recalling workers in the coming months to meet increased orders. Volvo is recalling about 270 workers to its New River Valley plant, representing a 23% increase in employment at the plan.
Mack is adding about 125 workers at its Macungie Assembly Operations in Pen
