Demand for electric vans almost doubles as UK van market continues to grow

The number of UK light commercial vehicles (LCV) registered in the UK grew for the seventh consecutive month in July, increasing by 44.2 per cent to 26,990 units, according to the latest figures published today by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). In the best July since 2020, registrations were also up 4.4 per cent compared with pre-pandemic 2019 volumes, a result of rising demand for new vans, pickups and 4x4s and the easing of supply chain issues constraining production.

The largest volume growth was recorded for medium-sized vans weighing greater than 2.0 to 2.5 tonnes, which more than trebled, up 227.4 per cent in the month. Registrations of the largest LCVs, weighing greater than 2.5 to 3.5 tonnes, increased by 29.3 per cent to 19,111 units and accounted for 70.8 per cent of the market registered in the month. Deliveries of 4x4s and pickups also saw growth, up 159.3 per cent and 48.3 per cent respectively, while registrations of vans weighing up to and including 2.0 tonnes were the only segment to decline, falling -40.9 per cent to 427 units.

Demand for zero emission work horses continued to grow with battery electric vans (BEVs) soaring 94.6 per cent to 1,489 units and a 5.5 per cent market share – up from 4.1 per cent last year. 10,292 BEVs have been registered so far in 2023, an increase of 16.1 per cent year on year, although market share has decreased marginally from 5.4 per cent to 5.2 per cent in the year to date.

Commenting on the figures, Mike Hawes said: “Following a solid first half, van sales have enjoyed an extremely positive month, beating even pre-pandemic levels. The challenge now is to deliver even greater EV uptake, which requires urgent action to reduce soaring energy costs and increase the provision of dedicated van charging infrastructure to bolster operator confidence and meet the unique needs of this sector. These are vital hurdles to overcome, more so given next year will see a ZEV mandate with minimum sales targets for every brand.”