Registrations of new light commercial vehicles (LCVs) in the UK declined by 15.1% in October, according to data published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
A total of 22,896 vans, pickups, and 4×4s were registered during the month.
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This downturn follows a comparatively strong September and contributes to a 10.2% decrease for the year so far, with 264,160 units registered as businesses remain cautious amid challenging economic conditions.
The drop in registrations affected all categories of vans.
The largest LCVs, which comprise nearly three-quarters of the market, saw registrations fall by 7% to 16,443 units.
Medium-sized vans experienced a decline of 41.2% to 3,347 units while small van registrations dropped by 23.4% to 523 units.
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By GlobalDataIn contrast, the market for 4×4s vehicles recorded an increase of 88%, reaching 440 units, despite being a smaller segment.
New pickups registered a decline of 20.2%, with 2,143 units sold. Changes to tax treatment for double cab pickups were noted as a contributing factor for this reduction.
Battery-electric van (BEV) registrations fell by 5.8% to 2,132 units in October—the first such decline in over a year—although their overall market share edged up to 9.2%.
Recent policy decisions may influence future trends in the sector. Measures such as continued eligibility for certain non-zero emission and plug-in hybrid vans until 2035, introduction of a Depot Charging Scheme, the extension of the Plug-in Van Grant, and proposals to ease planning rules for private charger installations have been announced.
SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes said: “While October’s decline is unsurprising amid the intense economic pressure facing businesses, returning the van market to growth is essential – especially to underpin new investment in zero emission models, which until now had bucked wider trends.
“Every lever must be pulled to get the market back on track, and transitioned at mandated levels. Accelerating infrastructure rollout and grid connections, in particular, will help ensure government targets are not just an aspiration but are actually deliverable for manufacturers and operators alike.”
Looking ahead, SMMT forecasts expect LCV registrations to reach around 321,000 units this year, a drop of 8.7% compared to last year’s figures.
