NFDA sees light commercial registrations rise, powered by mid-large vans

Light commercial vehicles’ sales rose 6.3 per cent compared to last year with 15,385 vans and light trucks registered, the latest SMMT commercial vehicle registration figures show. The most significant increase came from mid to large size vans, which grew by over 14 per cent. ‘Pick-ups’ and 4×4 trucks showed a minor growth, while sub 2.0t car-derived vans, often used by self-employed tradespeople, declined -5.2 per cent.

“It is positive to see that new vans up to 3.5 tonnes saw a record number of registrations since the pre-recession peak in 2006. Deliveries of internet purchases boosted this segment’s performance”, said Sue Robinson, director of the National Franchised Dealers Association.

“Heavy weight vans 2.5 – 3.5t, usually used for home deliveries, continued to grow and now represent 62.5 per cent of all vans sold. Ford dominated the market in August with over 4,000 registrations and held the lead year-to-date with 70,700 registrations since January. Volkswagen is in second position year-to-date with a market share of nearly 12 per cent.

“Results are satisfying and there is optimism for a strong market ahead with semi-private buyers and self-employed who value the number plate change in September.”