Bus and coach market largely defies an expected severe downturn, exclusive ABC data reveals.
While the coronavirus was forecasted to severely impact Australian supply chains – particularly as the pandemic tightened its grip on the world in March – bus and coach deliveries largely defied the downturn with a respectable tally for the month.
While well short of the unprecedented highs of 140 and 172 in February and January respectively, the final figure of 97 still hovers around the three-figure mark.
When compared with the 65 deliveries reported only two years ago, in the February 2018 edition, it can be viewed as a solid middle ground considering the circumstances.
Volvo was the clear standout in the OEM sector, reporting 37 deliveries for the month. Fellow Swede Scania followed on 24. The brand most impacted here was BCI, which reported no deliveries for the month after a solid 21 in February.
The body builders were locked in a tight race at a smaller scale than usual, with regular market frontrunner Volgren retaining its lead by a slender margin. Its 18 was followed by Bustech and Irizar on 14 each, and Custom Bus on 13.
Thermo King continues its market dominance in the air-conditioning sector, notching up another half-century. In a smaller field for the month, Hispacold and Spheros finished on 18 and 16, respectively.
A rarity for the state chart sees WA emerge as the busiest. It occupied 24 per cent of the market, just ahead of NSW, Queensland and Victoria, with only 2 per cent separating the chasing trio.
Click here for comprehensive bus and coach delivery information for March. Please note all data is as supplied from manufacturers, with their involvement at their discretion.