January CV output volume is down 13.5 per cent on January 2004.

According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders the growth outlook for this year is 'modest' after last year's near 11 per cent growth.

'2004 was a great year for commercial vehicle building in the UK', said Christopher Macgowan, SMMT chief executive.

'UK plants showed themselves more than capable of meeting a big increase in European demand. New models should help to maintain the UK market this year. We expect very good numbers and may match last year's record CV registration total.'