• Commercial vehicle registrations increase 5.0% as August sees 16,394 vans and pick-ups registered
• Demand for large vans (14.6%) and pickups (21.4%) helps offset declines for medium (-29.7%) and smaller (-9.3%) models.
• Year-to-date market down -2.2% compared to same period in 2017, as monthly registrations continue to fluctuate.
PICK-UPS againg help light commercial vehicle (LCV) market gorw in August. The pick-up sector was up 21.4% to help LCV registrations hit 16,000 as August saw a 5.0% increase in demand according to figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
Demand for large vans saw an uptick of 14.6% to take over two-thirds (67.2%) of all van registrations.
However, small and medium sized vans fell -9.3% and -29.7% respectively – reflecting a probable desire by smaller firms and trades to upscale for improved flexibility (see our report in Business Vans Is size everything? [https://www.businessvans.co.uk/van-chooser-1/van-types/what-van-should-i-buy/is-size-everything/] ).
SMMT said reported that year-to-date registrations were off -2.2%, with 220,399 new LCVs joining British roads so far this year. The SMMT pointed to variations in fleet buying cycles and business confidence as reasons for the fluctuating demand.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, added:
“August is typically one of the quietest months for new LCV registrations, so the increase in demand for these high-tech, ultra-low and zero-emission vehicles is especially welcome news. While year-to-date figures show the market remains at a reasonably high level, weak business confidence and uncertainty means fluctuations in demand will likely continue throughout year.”
Russell Adams, Commercial Vehicle Manager for Lex Autolease added:
“The rise in new van registrations in August year on year demonstrates that demand remains high, with the total number of new light commercial vehicles registered in 2018 set to, yet again, be significantly higher than 300,000.
“Electrification is firmly on the agenda for most commercial fleet managers. Increased range in the 2.0 to 2.5 tonne vehicle category is helping retailers make greater use of electric vehicles, particularly in London where this allows delivery vans to reach new boroughs.
“Expansion of low emission zones and congestion charges outside of London, and the prospect of updated Euro emissions standards at some point in the future are further fuelling demand for alternatively fuelled vehicles.
“Within this climate, operators of light commercial vehicles are increasingly looking for flexibility in their fleet, further driving demand for leasing. Overall, a full understanding the job role remains essential for selecting the right vehicle and fuel type.”
