UK registrations of new light commercial vehicles (LCVs) edged up slightly in February, increasing by 1.1% to 14,641 units, according to data released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders. The rise marks the second monthly increase in three months after a year-long period of declining demand. February traditionally represents a relatively small share of annual registrations, typically accounting for about 5% of the yearly total as many buyers wait for the March number plate change.
The modest growth was largely driven by demand for larger vans. Registrations of vans weighing between 2.5 and 3.5 tonnes rose 7.6% to 10,719 units, representing more than 73% of all vans registered during the month. The 2.0 to 2.5 tonne van category also recorded strong growth, increasing 16.9% to 2,477 units. Meanwhile, 4x4 registrations rose sharply by 64.0% to 269 units.
Despite these gains, the overall market continued to face challenges. Pickup registrations fell significantly, dropping 54.9% to 813 units. The decline reflects the ongoing effect of tax changes introduced last year that altered benefit-in-kind and capital allowance treatment for double cab pickups. Demand for smaller vans weighing less than 2.0 tonnes also weakened, declining 15.0% to 363 units.
Electrification continued to advance within the sector. Battery-electric van registrations surged 42.2% to 2,009 units, increasing their market share to 13.5%. However, this remains well below the 24% share required under the UK’s zero-emission vehicle mandate for 2026.
Diesel vehicles still dominated the market, accounting for nearly 80% of registrations. Over the first two months of the year, total LCV registrations reached 32,203 units, down 3.9% compared with the same period in 2025.