FTR Associates reports strong bounce back in Class 8 orders

Jan. 13, 2012
December Class 8 truck total net orders for major N.A. OEMs reached the second highest level in three years.

FTR Associates has released preliminary data showing December Class 8 truck total net orders for all major North American OEM’s reaching the second highest level in three years at 29,777 units.  December orders were up 46% month over month, with a year-over-year increase from December 2011 of 11 percent, and reversed the decline of disappointing November order activity. Class 8 orders for the final three months of 2011 annualize to 312,000 units.

Jonathan Starks, FTR’s Director of Transportation Analysis, commented, “The rebound in orders to finish 2011 reaffirms our confidence that new truck demand will not wane in 2012. In fact, the six month annualized order rate of 280,000 units confirms our outlook for this year: modest growth over 2011, but relatively flat production versus the last six months. The final ruling for trucking’s Hours-of-Service (HOS) regulations (with a scheduled start not until July 2013) negates any possible positive impact for truck demand in 2012. We expect to see orders ease late in the first quarter as trucking operations prepare for the start of the freight season.”

Final data for December will be available from FTR later in the month as part of its North American Commercial Truck & Trailer Outlook service.  Contact FTR Associates at [email protected] or 1-888-988-1699 ext 1 for more details. 

Sponsored Recommendations

AIRCAT Solutions - Small Ratchets With Enormous Power

Experience the power of AIRCAT's diverse ratchet selection. Each designed with a unique transmission gear for faster torque buildup and unbeatable performance. Their compact sizes...

Unmatched Power and Comfort: AIRCAT Grinders for Every Workspace

AIRCAT grinders deliver powerful performance with high RPM and efficient, quiet operation. Designed for comfort and control, they feature ergonomic handles, extended reach, and...

What Are the Advantages of Air Tools Over Cordless Tools?

Discover the advantages of air tools over cordless tools.

AIRCAT Tool Reviews: The Nitrocat 1056-XL Compact

Hear what senior autotechs have to say about the AIRCAT Nitrocat 1056-XL compact impact wrench. They’ll provide their reviews on tools they own and have been using every day on...

Voice Your Opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Vehicle Service Pros, create an account today!