Truck, Van Sales Drop 18% in Europe

Commercial vehicle registrations across Europe fell to 141,000 units in May from 172,100 a year earlier, according to industry group ACEA.

Light truck sales in Europe slid 19% to 124,100 units last month. Demand for light commercial vehicles declined in three of Europe's four largest markets, dropping 42% to 10,400 units in Italy, 14% to 18,300 units in Germany, and 23% to 31,600 units in France. U.K. volume increased 7% to 21,300 units.

European demand for heavy-duty trucks contracted 15% to 16,000 units in May. Volume plunged in Italy (42% to 821 vehicles) and fell in Germany (14% to 5,000 units) and France (15% to 3,300 units). Heavy truck sales climbed 16% to 2,300 units in the U.K.