Commercial vehicle sales enjoy October increase
The number of new light commercial vehicles (LCVs) joining UK roads grew 2.4% in October, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
Its figures revealed registrations were up to 26,974 units, making it the third month of successive growth and the best performing October in three years.
Growth was driven by demand for small and medium vans, which was up 55.9% and 49.6% to 683 and 5,688 units respectively. Uptake of large vans fell by 2.7% to 17,683 units, although these vehicles still represent the vast majority (65.6%) of the market.
Demand for new pickups and 4x4s also declined, by 18.9% and 62 to 2,686 and 234 units respectively.
Commercial vehicle sales
Meanwhile, demand for new battery electric vans (BEVs) rose for the first time in five months, up 61.8% to 2,263 units, with EVs representing 8.4% of the whole new LCV market in October. But over the course of the year uptake has fallen by 1.9%, accounting for a 5.6% market share.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “The continued growth in demand for new vans is encouraging given this sector is a barometer of the health of Britain’s businesses. Industry has invested huge sums delivering cutting-edge technology, including zero emission vehicles, but low demand raises serious doubt over the ability of the UK to achieve its ambitious green targets.
“There must be an urgent review of the market, regulation and support in place, else the cost will soon be felt in reduced UK investment, economic growth, jobs and decarbonisation.”
