UK new LCV registrations increased by 11.1% year-on-year in March, making it the best month seen for three years, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
A total of 52,916 LCVs were registered during the month, including 35,592 vans weighing 2.5-3.5t, a 16.1% rise for the segment, accounting for more than two-thirds of the overall market.
The 2.0-2.5t van segment was the only one to see a decline in March, with registrations down by 3.6% year-on-year to 8,939.
Vans weighing less than 2.0t were up by 44.8% to 986, pick-ups were up by 0.1% to 5,767, and 4x4s were up by 29.1% to 1,632.
Electric LCV registrations were up by 14.7%, accounting for 5.5% of the market.
SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes 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.
“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.”
The Ford Transit Custom recorded 7,809 registrations in March to return to the top of the sales chart, ahead of the Ford Transit with 4,864, and the Ford Ranger with 2,881.
Completing the top 10 were the Volkswagen Transporter (2,773 registrations), Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (2,089), Vauxhall Vivaro (1,977), Ford Transit Connect (1,959), Renault Trafic (1,903), Citroen Berlingo (1,876), and Toyota Hilux (1,711).
