Registrations of trailers and semi-trailers soar by +26.1% in April, yet UNRAE urges the Government to act swiftly for road safety and fleet renewal
April boom for the trailer market
The market of trailers and semi-trailers over 3.5 tons of gross vehicle weight recorded a significant surge in April 2025: registrations rose to 1,406 units, marking a +26.1% increase compared to April 2024 (1,115 units). This positive trend also reflects in the cumulative data from January to April, with 4,814 registrations versus 4,414 in the same period of the previous year (+9.1%).
Encouraging figures amid structural fragility
Despite the surge, the context remains fragile. As Michele Mastagni, Coordinator of the UNRAE Trailers, Semi-Trailers and Fittings Group, explains, there are still structural weaknesses and insufficient institutional attention, both at the national and EU level. These are compounded by growing geopolitical and economic uncertainties.
Disappointment from the EU and delays at national level
UNRAE expresses dissatisfaction with the EU Commission’s Action Plan for the Automotive Sector, which fails to provide regulatory flexibility on emissions targets for heavy-duty vehicles and trailers.
Moreover, although Minister Salvini announced €600 million in support for the industry, Mastagni notes that no concrete measures have yet materialized.
A call for real investments in safety and innovation
UNRAE calls on the Italian Government to allocate part of these resources to the modernization of the trailer fleet. This step is essential to improve road safety and make Italian logistics more efficient and sustainable.
The association also suggests discouraging the use of outdated vehicles by leveraging motorway tolls, ownership taxes, traffic restrictions, and payload limits.
Time to clear the road for Eurotrailers
Finally, UNRAE renews its plea for a regulatory update allowing articulated vehicles up to 18.75 meters in length, which would pave the way for Eurotrailers in Italy. These longer vehicles could improve freight efficiency and reduce emissions by transporting more goods per trip.
FAQ
1. What is meant by the trailer market?
It refers to trailers and semi-trailers with a total weight over 3.5 tons.
2. How much did the market grow in April 2025?
It increased by 26.1% compared to April 2024.
3. What is the growth over the first four months of 2025?
A cumulative increase of 9.1% year-over-year.
4. What are the main concerns of the sector?
Structural challenges, regulatory burdens, and geopolitical instability.
5. Why is the EU Action Plan considered disappointing?
It lacks regulatory flexibility for emissions targets in the trailer segment.
6. What is the purpose of the €600 million government pledge?
To support the sector, especially fleet renewal.
7. Why should old trailers be discouraged?
To improve road safety and reduce emissions.
8. What disincentives does UNRAE propose?
Adjustments in tolls, taxes, traffic rules, and weight limits.
9. What is a Eurotrailer?
A longer articulated vehicle, up to 18.75 meters, widely used in Europe.
10. What would the benefit of Eurotrailers be?
Greater logistics efficiency and lower operational costs.
Leave a Reply