Van and truck registrations were up by 10.7% to 23,580 units in October, with the rolling year up 19.5% to 295,978, according to figures from the SMMT.

Van registrations grew by 6.7% in October with rises for almost every weight category. The rate of increase on 2010 has eased from the highs seen early in the year but, despite this, rolling year figures are still up 18.2%.

Meanwhile, for all segments below 2.5t, registrations rose 27.4% for the month; 11% for the year-to-date and 14.5% for the 12 months to October.

In the 2.5t to 3.5t segments, total volume fell 3% in the month, but was up 17.9% on the YTD. 4x4 utilities saw growth of 5% for the month and 27% for the rolling year.

"The commercial vehicle market remains buoyant with October registrations up by more than 10% and year to date up by nearly 20%," said Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive.

"Efficiency is a key driver as operators are investing in the latest models across almost every market sector to reap the rewards of greater load carrying ability and fuel economy. These remain challenging economic conditions and we are looking to the Chancellor's Autumn Statement later this month to set out measures to boost growth and steady business confidence."

Video summary of October commercial vehicle registrations with Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive.