New UK bus, coach and minibus registrations surged by almost two thirds (62.5%) in the second quarter of 2025 (Q2) with 2,968 registrations, according to the latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
The rise in registrations represents the ninth consecutive quarter of market growth, and the SMMT suggests that increased passenger levels are giving fleet operators confidence to invest in new vehicles.
Volume growth was driven primarily by a doubling in new minibuses, up by almost 100% to 1,803 units, whilst deliveries of single-deckers and coaches grew by 21% to 648 units. Demand for double-deckers also rose significantly, up by 34% to 517 units.
England saw a 53% rise in uptake in Q2, to 2,377 units, accounting for eight in ten (80%) of all UK registrations. The second largest market, Scotland saw the most dramatic growth, with volumes up 378% to 502 units, driven in part by investments supported by ScotZEB funding. Fleet renewal declined in Wales and Northern Ireland, down 57% and 19% respectively. SMMT notes that these markets are volatile due to large growth seen last year, and small volumes of just 50 and 39 registrations respectively.
A major factor behind the continued growth has been the ongoing shift to zero-emission fleets. A longer-term strategy to support smaller and rural operators transition to electric power for their fleets is needed, according to the SMMT. It is suggesting the introduction of a national plan for infrastructure at depot, shared hub and en route locations.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said: “Britain’s new bus, coach and minibus market continues to gain momentum with another quarter of growth making it nine months in a row, which is a welcome period of market recovery after 2020’s nadir. The growth has been underpinned by rising passenger levels and zero emission uptake as bus decarbonisation continues to be a real success story, cutting emissions, improving air quality and increasing access to affordable, mass green mobility across the country.”
John Dwight, Sales Director of Imperial Engineering, commented:
“Having supported the UK bus and coach industry for over 60 years, we are greatly encouraged by these figures, which demonstrate a robust market and one that leads Europe. We should look forward with optimism as operators continue their transformation journey to zero emission fleets. Our status as the primary parts distributor for BYD in the UK reflects how the market has developed and the pace at which new ZEV units are being introduced.”
Alongside parts supply which supports bus and coach operators across the UK, Imperial Engineering assists customers in identifying the correct parts for their vehicles, as well as providing technical support and training, in partnership with its manufacturer partners.
