September saw the UK new light commercial vehicle (LCV) market grow for the sixth consecutive month, increasing by 4.8% to 49,704 units, according to the latest figures published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
Large vans led volume growth, rising 11.1% to 36,302 units indicating confidence in the fleet sector to continue upgrading their fleets, while medium and small van registrations rose by 2.2% (7,304 units) and 13.2% (1,361 units) respectively. Demand for 4×4 vehicles rose to 2,079 units, a huge percentage increase of 221.3% which could be related in the downturn in pick-up sales where some private dual-purpose buyers could have moves across from the 4×4 market in this number plate prefix change month. The 4×4 increases to 67.7% year to date. Pickup registrations dropped 53.8% to 2,658 units following tax reclassifications.
Battery electric van (BEV) registrations reached a record 4,832 units in September, up 13.4%, representing a 9.6% market share for the month and 10.8% year-to-date. However, the proportion of operators switching to BEV’s remains below the 24% Zero Emissions Vehicle (ZEV) mandate target.
Sue Robinson, Chief Executive of NFDA said: “September’s figures highlight encouraging growth across key areas of the commercial vehicle market, with record uptake in battery electric vans demonstrating the ongoing efforts of manufacturers and franchised dealers to support businesses switching to zero-emission vehicles. However, with BEV market share remaining below regulatory targets due to higher upfront costs and infrastructure delays, practical support such as the Plug-in Van Grant and depot charging infrastructure remains vital. NFDA urges government to ensure long-term policy certainty and realistic regulatory frameworks to give commercial vehicle operators the confidence to invest and renew their fleets.”