Demand for buses rose significantly in March: which models are being purchased
22 April 16:20
March statistics on bus registrations show a significant increase in activity compared to February. The segment of new imported vehicles demonstrated the most impressive growth, rising by 307.7% month-over-month. This was reported by the Automotive Market Research Institute., reports "Komersant Ukrainian".
“This indicates the fulfillment of large municipal or private contracts for the renewal of urban and suburban transport fleets,” analysts note.
It is reported that domestic resales remain the main channel for vehicle turnover (355 transactions), showing a 47.9% increase compared to February. However, on an annual basis, the market is still down by 9.9%.
“The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter remains the leader in resales, having effectively monopolized the niche of suburban and intercity express transportation. Noteworthy is the second-place position of the VDL Citea model—this indicates active turnover of used European low-floor buses in the domestic market.”
Models traditional for Ukraine—Etalon and Bogdan—are holding their ground in the school and budget suburban transportation segment.
It is noted that the segment of used bus imports grew by 26%, stabilizing at 97 units. In addition to the undisputed leaders in the small class (Sprinter, Vario), importers are actively bringing in large city buses (Mercedes-Benz Citaro) and tour buses (Setra, Van Hool).
According to analysts, the total new bus market in March amounted to 101 units. The main trend was the growth in imports of new vehicles (53 units), which exceeded domestic production volumes (48 units) for the first time in a long time.
“The Isuzu Citiport became the market leader, indicating the implementation of targeted programs to renew city fleets. New Ford Transits, used as social and corporate transport, also hold strong positions.”
Domestic manufacturers (BAZ, Bogdan/Ataman, ZAZ) recorded a 20% decline in production in March compared to February. The majority of the vehicles produced are small-class suburban models, which are traditionally purchased with budget funds.
As experts note, the positive year-over-year growth (71.4% for Ukrainian production) indicates a gradual recovery of factory operations following last year’s stagnation.
