Van market up five per cent in August

The British light commercial vehicle (LCV) market grew last month according to figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Just over 16,000 new LCVs were registered in the traditionally small month of August, representing a 5.0 per cent increase in demand.

Pickups experienced the largest rise in the month up 21.4. per cent, while demand for large vans saw a 14.6 per cent increase to take over two-thirds (67.2 per cent) of all van registrations. Meanwhile, it was a different picture for small and medium sized vans which fell -9.3 per cent and -29.7 per cent respectively.

Year-to-date registrations are down -2.2 per cent, with 220,399 new LCVs joining British roads so far this year, as fluctuating registrations caused by variations in fleet buying cycles and business confidence continue to affect the market.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “August is typically one of the quietest months for new LCV registrations, so the increase in demand for these high-tech, ultra-low and zero-emission vehicles is especially welcome news. While year-to-date figures show the market remains at a reasonably high level, weak business confidence and uncertainty means fluctuations in demand will likely continue throughout year.”