Class 8 orders hit 13-month high in January

Feb. 28, 2017
Class 8 net orders jumped to a 13-month high in January 2017 at 22,188 units, lending further support to the notion that Q2-Q3 2016 marked the bottom of the current cycle, according to ACT Research.

Class 8 net orders jumped to a 13-month high in January 2017 at 22,188 units, lending further support to the notion that Q2-Q3 2016 marked the bottom of the current cycle, according to ACT Research.

A driver of renewed market strength has been an uptick in demand for vocational equipment.

“Orders for vocational equipment rose to a two-year high 8,500 units, or 38.5% of the month’s intake,” said Kenny Vieth, ACT Research president and senior analyst.

Echoing the positive demand of Class 8, medium-duty net orders hit a six-month high at 22,744 units. That volume was up 3% month-over-month, and 31% year-over-year.

“The improvement was broad-based, with truck, bus and RV orders all posting y/y and m/m gains. Seasonal adjustment lifts MD orders in January, boosting the total to 24,100 units,” said Vieth. “On that basis, January was the best month for MD orders since February 2008.”

He said that stronger Class 8 orders, coupled with modest build, allowed backlogs to rise 7,600 units from December to 99,600 units.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of FleetOwner, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Boost truck leasing profits with telematics insights! Reduce maintenance costs, improve uptime, and strengthen customer relationships. Learn how data drives success.
This free guide outlines simple steps for hiring and onboarding commercial drivers while ensuring that you meet Regulation Part 391 and maintain fully compliant driver qualification...
Ready to boost fleet efficiency by up to 50%? Learn how AI-powered dispatch and next-gen tech are transforming TMS workflows, improving driver planning, and streamlining operations...
Gain a strategic edge in today’s evolving fleet landscape. Join us to explore how fuel cards are helping fleet managers cut costs, enhance control, and prepare for an electrified...