THE number of UK light commercial vehicles (LCV) registered in the UK grew for the seventh consecutive month in July, increasing by 44.2% to 26,990 units, according to the latest figures published today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
In the best July since 2020, registrations were also up 4.4% compared with pre-pandemic 2019 volumes, a result of rising demand for new vans, pickups and 4x4s and the easing of supply chain issues constraining production.
The largest volume growth was recorded for medium-sized vans weighing greater than 2.0 to 2.5 tonnes, which more than trebled, up 227.4% in the month. Registrations of the largest LCVs, weighing greater than 2.5 to 3.5 tonnes, increased by 29.3% to 19,111 units and accounted for 70.8% of the market registered in the month. Deliveries of 4x4s and pickups also saw growth, up 159.3% and 48.3% respectively, while registrations of vans weighing up to and including 2.0 tonnes were the only segment to decline, falling 40.9% to 427 units.
Demand for zero emission work horses continued to grow with battery electric vans (BEVs) soaring 94.6% to 1,489 units and a 5.5% market share – up from 4.1% last year. 10,292 BEVs have been registered so far in 2023, an increase of 16.1% year on year, although market share has decreased marginally from 5.4% to 5.2% in the year to date.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said: “Following a solid first half, van sales have enjoyed an extremely positive month, beating even pre-pandemic levels. The challenge now is to deliver even greater EV uptake, which requires urgent action to reduce soaring energy costs and increase the provision of dedicated van charging infrastructure to bolster operator confidence and meet the unique needs of this sector. These are vital hurdles to overcome, more so given next year will see a ZEV mandate with minimum sales targets for every brand.”
