Bus and coach registrations surge 62%

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 published today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). It represents the ninth consecutive quarter of growth, with the SMMT saying rising passenger levels give fleet operators confidence to invest.

Volume growth was driven primarily by a doubling in new minibus uptake, up 99.7% to 1,803 units, while deliveries of single-deckers and coaches grew by 20.9% to 648 units. Demand for double-deckers also rose significantly, up 33.6% to 517 units.

England saw a 52.7% rise in uptake in Q2, to 2,377 units, accounting for eight in ten (80.1%) UK registrations. The second largest market, Scotland saw the most dramatic growth, with volumes up 378.1% to 502 units, driven in part by investments supported by ScotZEB funding. Fleet renewal declined in Wales and Northern Ireland, down 56.9% and 18.8% respectively. SMMT notes these markets are volatile due to large growth last year, and small volumes of just 50 and 39 registrations respectively.

A longer-term strategy to support smaller and rural operators transition to electric power for their fleets is needed, according to the SMMT. It suggests 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 – 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.”