New light commercial vehicle (LCV) registrations increased by 11.4% year-on-year to 25,510 units in October, according to the latest figures published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), marking a seventh consecutive month of growth for the sector.
‘October saw another encouraging performance for the LCV market, with registrations rising for the seventh consecutive month and demand for larger vans remaining strong,’ said Sue Robinson, Chief Executive of National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA). ‘The increase in electric van registrations is also positive, although significant challenges remain in meeting the government’s mandated targets.’
Performance across the market remained mixed:
- Large vans increased by 12.9% to 18,560 units
- Medium-sized vans rose by 14.3% to 3,825 units
- Small vans declined by 11.7% to 462 units
- Pick-ups fell by 17.7% to 1,764 units
- 4x4s increased by 104.3% to 899 units
Large vans once again supported overall market growth, accounting for 72.8% of registrations, while pick-up demand remained under pressure following last year’s tax changes. Year-to-date registrations reached 276,885 units, up 4.8% compared with the same period in 2025. Electric van registrations also performed strongly, increasing by 58.0% to 3,369 units, marking the strongest October on record and achieving a 12.9% market share. However, year-to-date electric van share stands at 11.0%, remaining well below the 24% ZEV Mandate target for 2026.
Sue Robinson added: ‘Seven consecutive months of growth is encouraging, particularly alongside the strong increase in electric van registrations. However, the continued decline in pick-up demand and the gap between electric van uptake and mandated targets demonstrate that challenges remain. The government’s ongoing review of the ZEV Mandate must deliver realistic targets, alongside greater investment in charging infrastructure and support for businesses making the transition to electric vehicles.’