UK new LCV registrations increased again in June, marking six consecutive months of market growth.
Figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) show that year-on-year registrations were up by 13.5% during the month to 39,929 units.
The biggest increase was seen in the largest market sector, 2.5t-3.5t vans, for which demand grew by 22.2% to 26,123.
There was also in increase in registrations of vans weighing less than 2.0t, which were up by 10.3%.
However, there were declines in registrations of new pick-ups, by 0.7%, vans weighing 2.0t-2.5t, by 3.6%, and 4x4s, down by 21.8%.
Across the first half of 2019 the new LCV market has seen an 8.7% rise to 196,418, with sales increases in all sectors except for 4x4s, which account for a tiny fraction of overall registrations.
The strongest growth has been seen in the highest volume 2.5t-3.5t sector, which was up 11.4% to 123,039 sales. The top three sellers overall were the Ford Transit Custom, the Ford Transit and the Mercedes Sprinter.
SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes said: “With many light commercial vehicles playing a crucial role in urban areas, getting more of the latest, cleanest and most fuel efficient models on to our roads is essential to help improve air quality – so it’s good news to see the UK van market performing so well.
“However, it’s important to remember that purchasing patterns are cyclical and for this trend to continue we need business confidence to improve and political uncertainty to end with a good Brexit deal.”
