The forecast for commercial truck sales through 2012 indicates that all market segments are expected to grow between 5% and 10% in 2010. In 2011 and 2012, though, the medium- and heavy-duty commercial market segments are expected to grow much faster than the light-duty segment (see Figure 1). In total, after a fall of almost 30% in 2009, the industry is expected to rebound by about 8% in 2010 to 1.6 million units; about 20% in 2011 to 1.9 million units; and another 20% in 2012, which will put the industry’s total production above 2 million units again for the first time since 2008.

Figure 1
 

Industry Size by Segment

The size of the work truck and trailer industry can be measured in numerous ways. Figure 2 reflects industry size in terms of sales dollars by segment. Total 2009 sales are expected to reach $50.1 billion, a 23.7% decline from the $78.8 billion of products sold in 2008, which declined 14.1% from the $99 billion of sales in 2007. The chassis segment, with sales of $27.9 billion as of 2009, remains the largest commercial truck industry segment.

 Figure 2

  


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