UK LCV Registrations Decline in February, Electric Vans Show Growth
Demand for new light commercial vehicles (LCVs) in the UK experienced a significant drop in February 2025, according to the latest data released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Registrations fell by -19.3% to 14,476 units, marking the third consecutive monthly decrease and the lowest February result since 2020. The decline comes as many operators typically delay vehicle purchases until the new March number plate arrives.
Despite the overall market contraction, some segments saw positive developments. The registrations of smaller vans (under 2.0 tonnes) increased by 55.3% to 427 units, capturing 2.9% of the market. However, medium vans (2.0 to 2.5 tonnes) decreased by -33.0% to 2,119 units, while larger vans (2.5 to 3.5 tonnes) dropped -19.0% to 9,962 units. The smaller segment market – 4x4s and pick-ups – also recorded declines, down -45.7% and -4.8% respectively.
Battery electric vans (BEVs) continued their upward trajectory for the fifth consecutive month, with uptake rising by 55.1% to 1,413 units, taking a 9.7% market share, a significant increase of nearly five percentage points year-on-year. More than 30 zero-emission van models are currently available, which should give operators an increasing choice. The automotive industry has welcomed the continuation of the Plug-in Van Grant, but emphasizes that faster chargepoint rollout, including van-specific infrastructure, is essential.
February LCV Registration Highlights:
- Overall Decline: -19.3% decrease in total LCV registrations.
- Electric Van Growth: 55.1% increase in BEV registrations.
- Market Share: BEVs hold 9.7% of the market.
- Segment Performance: Smaller vans (under 2.0 tonnes) up 55.3%; medium and large vans declined.
Fuel Type Performance:
The data also revealed that the market share for electric vans is growing, with 9.7% of total registrations in February. Diesel vans still dominate the market, but the gap is slowly closing, with diesel registrations declining in both February and year-to-date figures.
Regulatory Changes and Future Outlook
With the industry facing a 16% zero-emission new van market target this year, urgent measures are needed to accelerate the transition. The government’s review of the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate is critical and must introduce measures that address the weak demand and encourage faster fleet renewal. The SMMT has stated that mandating faster chargepoint rollout – including infrastructure that is specific to vans – will be crucial to boosting confidence. Reintroducing discounted VED on ZEVs is also necessary to help raise demand to levels required under market regulation.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, commented on the figures:
“Against an increasingly difficult economic backdrop, van manufacturers have shown resilience, but the decline was perhaps inevitable after two years of strong performance. Even in a contracting market, however, zero emission uptake is positive but still struggles to match the ambition of regulation. While the ongoing Plug-in Van Grant provides a lifeline, we still need support to bolster operator confidence, boost demand and deliver decarbonisation. Industry has committed billions to this vital transition and the mandate review must deliver workable measures that enable that commitment to deliver our shared ambition.”
