The UK new light commercial vehicle (LCV) market remained stable in February, with year-on-year demand growing by 1.8%, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

SMMT figures show that 249 more vans and pick-ups were registered in February (typically one of the year’s smallest months) compared with 2018.

Large vans weighing 2.5-3.5 tonnes drove growth, rising 4.2% to take 65% of market share. Car-derived vans weighing 2.0 tonnes also saw an increase, up 4.6%. Meanwhile, demand for pick-ups and medium-sized vans experienced falls in registrations, down by 2.4% and 4.5% respectively.

Year-to-date, 36,620 new LCVs have been registered, representing a rise of 5.8% on the first two months of 2018.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “While stability in the new van market in February is welcome news, it is important to remember that February is typically a quiet month, as buyers await the March plate change.

“The increase follows a turbulent few months for van registrations and the effect of ongoing political and economic uncertainty on business confidence is likely to result in further fluctuations throughout the year.” 

 

More articles on: