Van registrations increased 5.4% in May, the fifth consecutive month of growth, according to figures from the Society of Motor manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

In total, 29,142 light commercial vehicles were registered, bringing the total number of new vans sold in the UK this year to 156,489, 7.5% higher than the same period last year.

Demand for vans weighing less than 2.0 tonnes rose most in the month, increasing 14%. Registrations of mid-sized and larger vans weighing 2.0 and 2.5 tonnes and 2.5 to 3.5 tonnes increased 10.2% and 5.3% respectively.

Elsewhere, sales of pick-ups and 4x4s were down 1.8% and 26.3% respectively.

Mike Hawes, chief executive of SMMT, said: “Another month of growth for the UK’s van market is welcome news, evidence that investment by manufacturers into new models is continuing to help attract buyers.

“Vans today are more high-tech than ever, with impressive fuel economy, safety features and performance.

“However, business purchasing is cyclical in nature and for the market to stay strong we need the right economic and political conditions.”