The Economy

Demand for Commercial Vehicles Remained Strong in June

July 6, 2011

Research firm: Orders in North America have been bouncing back since late 2010.

Net orders for commercial vehicles in North America stayed at healthy levels in June, according to ACT Research Co.'s preliminary analysis of the June data.

When the final numbers are released later this month, the Columbus, Ind.-based research firm expects orders for Class 8 vehicles to come in at 21,200 units and orders for Class 5 through 7 vehicles to come in at 14,600 units.

In both the medium- and heavy-duty markets, demand has been increasing since fourth-quarter 2010, the research firm noted.

"June marked the eighth consecutive month of Class 8 orders over 20,000 units," said Kenny Vieth, president and senior analyst for ACT Research. "This extended period of strong orders has boosted industry backlogs and lead times for delivery."

Vieth added that the backlog for Class 8 vehicles has increased from more than three months to build prior to the start of the current run-up to more than six months at the current rate of build.

About the Author

Josh Cable | Former Senior Editor

Former Senior Editor Josh Cable covered innovation issues -- including trends and best practices in R&D, process improvement and product development. He also reported on the best practices of the most successful companies and executives in the world of transportation manufacturing, which encompasses the aerospace, automotive, rail and shipbuilding sectors.

Josh also led the IndustryWeek Manufacturing Hall of Fame, IW’s annual tribute to the most influential executives and thought leaders in U.S. manufacturing history.

Before joining IndustryWeek, Josh was the editor-in-chief of Penton Media’s Government Product News and Government Procurement. He also was an award-winning beat reporter for several small newspapers in Northeast Ohio.

Josh received his BFA in creative writing from Bowling Green University, and continued his professional development through course-work at Ohio University and Cuyahoga Community College.

A lifelong resident of the Buckeye State, Josh currently lives in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland. When the weather cooperates, you’ll find him riding his bike to work, exercising his green thumb in the backyard or playing ultimate Frisbee.