ACT June preliminary commercial vehicle net orders point to continued strength

A preliminary reading of commercial vehicle net orders in June 2011 for North American markets indicated continued strength in demand for medium and heavy-duty vehicles, according to ACT Research Co.

When final June data are released in mid-July, North American Class 8 orders are anticipated at 21,200 units and Classes 5-7 orders at 14,600 units. In both markets, the current period of stronger demand stretches back to Q4 2010. Preliminary net order numbers are subject to revision and are typically accurate to within 5% plus or minus.

“June marked the eighth consecutive month of Class 8 orders over 20,000 units. This extended period of strong orders has boosted industry backlogs and lead times for delivery,” said Kenny Vieth, president and senior analyst. “Prior to the start of the run-up, Class 8 backlogs were just over three months to build. Today, the Class 8 backlog is over six months at the current rate of build.”