Truck Sales * Australia - Continue slow recovery

Australia’s truck market continues to recover slowly from the effects of the economic slowdown, with almost 2,500 units delivered during May

Sydney,AUST -ATN, by Gary Worrall -9 June 2009: -- ... While there were no surprises to see Isuzu remains in the top spot, it appears the European marques are gaining a foothold in the medium and heavy classifications, with virtually all brands increasing their market share... The light and medium duty truck market along with the van market continue to improve month-on-month (though still well short of 2008 levels), but the heavy duty sector recorded another contraction... Kenworth remains top dog in the class with 103 units delivered in May, however Volvo claimed second with a healthy 89 deliveries, taking its share above 11 percent, and Isuzu continues to grow in popularity with 74 units to consolidate its third place... Mercedes-Benz remains the clear leader in the van segment, nearly double the market share of its nearest rival, with 48.7 percent compared to 26.1 percent. FIAT is comfortably ahead of Volkswagen in second, 46 units to 23, followed by Iveco and Renault...