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Britain’s new light commercial vehicle (LCV) market has grown 11.1% to 52,916 units in its best March performance for three years, according to SMMT data.
Over 50,000 LCVs joined UK roads in March for fleet renewal. Data reveals 52,916 new vans, 4x4s and pickups were registered, up 11.1%.
The van sector has delivered its best first quarter for three years, with volumes -7.7% below Q1 2019.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said: “A strong new plate month with the greatest number of zero emission vans joining UK roads is a bellwether of the sector’s progress, cutting emissions while keeping British businesses on the move.”
Registrations of LCVs weighing over 2.5 tonnes to 3.5 tonnes represent more than two thirds (67.3%) of the market.
Registrations of the smallest vans increased by 44.8% to 986 units, medium-sized van registrations fell by -3.6% to 8,939 units. Pick-up volumes increased to 5,767, up 0.1% while demand for 4x4s rose by 29.1% to 1,632 units.
In addition, more fleets went green last month than in any other new numberplate month thus far. Battery electric van (BEV) registrations rose by 14.7% to 2,906 units and the greenest vans represented 5.5% of the whole LCV market, a slight increase from 5.3% in March 2023.
Hawes said: “Industry is ready to deliver further, but with green uptake still below mandated levels, swift action is needed to give new van buyers the confidence to go electric. Rapid delivery of van-suitable public charging points and removing the hurdle of taxation on their use are key to greener fleets and a greener future.”