According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), Britain’s new light commercial vehicle (LCV) market declines -18.4% in October, with 22,386 vans joining UK roads.

The UK’s new light commercial vehicle (LCV) market fell by -18.4% in October, with 22,386 of the latest vans joining Britain’s roads. Despite robust demand, registrations were at the lowest level for October since 2012,1 and some -16.5% below the pre-pandemic five-year average,2 as supply shortages continue to restrict global production and availability.

It records registrations of large and mid-weight vans fall -7.6% and -50.7% respectively, but battery electric van (BEV) registrations grow 52.5%.

In addition to, 2022 market outlook revised downwards, with action needed to maintain operator confidence and drive electric van uptake. 

Mike Hawes, Chief Executive, SMMT, said:

"The UK’s van market continues to be shackled by supply shortages amid difficult operating conditions, which will likely continue into 2023, easing over the course of the year. Demand for zero emission vans remains robust despite these challenges, but a successful net zero transition will require measures targeted at long-term operator confidence."