Registrations up for small and mid-sized vans

Registrations of new light commercial vehicles (LCVs) in the UK rose by 5.9% in January, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

Small vans weighing less than or equal to 2.0 tonnes and mid-sized vans weighing more than 2.0-2.5 tonnes led the charge, with double-digit growth for both segments at 26.3% and 41.7% respectively.

SMMT says that 4x4s experienced a moderate growth of 6.3%, while pickup registrations fell 9.7% and larger vans weighing more than 2.5-3.5 tonnes remain stable at 0.9%.  

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “January’s growth is welcome news for the commercial vehicle sector.

“Especially welcome is the increased uptake of alternatively fuelled commercial vehicles, essential if we are to address both climate change and air quality goals.

“The fastest way to do this is by encouraging uptake of the latest low emission vehicles, regardless of fuel type, and business confidence remains vital for this transition.”