UK’s Van Market Surges, But Large Vans and Trucks Face Challenges
The UK’s light commercial vehicle (LCV) market is showing positive signs, with fresh data indicating a 2.4% increase in October. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) reports that 26,974 new vans, pickups, and 4x4s were registered, marking the third consecutive month of growth and the best October performance in three years.
This positive trend is largely driven by smaller vans. Sales of small vans jumped by a remarkable 55.9%, reaching 683 units. Medium vans also saw strong growth, increasing by 49.6% to a total of 5,688 units. This suggests a rising demand from businesses and individual operators, particularly in urban areas where smaller vehicles are advantageous.
While the overall market is up, the large van segment saw a slight dip . Sales of large vans decreased by 2.7% to 17,683 units. Even with this decrease, they still account for a substantial 65.6% of the LCV market.
Pickups and 4x4s, however, are encountering more significant challenges. Pickup sales experienced an 18.9% drop, with 2,686 units sold. The 4×4 market was hit even harder, with a 62% decline, registering only 234 units.
One factor influencing the pickup market’s performance is the upcoming change in government tax regulations. Starting April 2025, double-cab pickups will be taxed as cars rather than as commercial vehicles. This shift is expected to increase costs for businesses that rely on these vehicles, including farmers, builders, and self-employed individuals. Industry representatives are urging policymakers to reconsider these changes.
On a more positive note, the electric van sector saw a significant surge in October. Registrations of battery electric vans increased by 61.8% to 2,263 units. These vehicles now represent 8.4% of the October market, providing a boost as the UK strives to meet its environmental targets. However, BEV uptake for the year is still down 1.9% compared to last year, accounting for only 5.6% of the market.
UK’s Best-Selling LCV Models in October 2024:
- Ford Transit Custom – 3,400
- Ford Transit – 2,921
- Peugeot Partner – 1,821
- Mercedes-Benz Sprinter – 1,553
- Ford Ranger – 1,407
- Vauxhall Combo – 1,287
- Peugeot Expert – 1,175
- Renault Trafic – 1,065
- Vauxhall Vivaro – 895
- Volkswagen Crafter – 839
UK’s Best-Selling LCV Models Year-to-Date:
- Ford Transit Custom – 38,917
- Ford Transit – 26,438
- Ford Ranger – 16,819
- Mercedes-Benz Sprinter – 15,805
- Vauxhall Vivaro – 14,156
- Volkswagen Transporter – 13,854
- Renault Trafic – 12,250
- Peugeot Partner – 11,091
- Vauxhall Combo – 10,559
- Citroen Berlingo – 10,533
Source: SMMT
