The UK new LCV market grew by 1.9% year-on-year in May, representing the 17th consecutive month of growth.
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) said this came despite a slight decline in the market-leading 2.5-3.5t van segment, which saw registrations down by 0.8%, to 17,042.
Vans weighing 2.0-2.5t were up by 8.1%, with 4,477 registrations, while vans weighing less than 2.0t were up by 55.7%, to 730.
Pick-ups were up by 4.1%, to 3,081, while 4x4s were down by 15%, to 523.
Electric van registrations were up by 3.5% year-on-year in May, accounting for 4.2% of the overall market.
SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes said: “The UK van market’s 17-month run of growth is playing a crucial part in renewing the fleet with the latest, cleanest vehicles. However, convincing businesses that now is the time to switch to zero emission operations remains a challenge.
“With an expanding choice for every use case now available, the next government must take steps to recharge the zero-emission van market, an essential part of the net zero economy every party wants.”
The Ford Transit Custom topped the LCV sales chart in May with 3,189 registrations, ahead of the Ford Transit with 2,505, and the Ford Ranger with 2,130.
Completing the top ten were the Renault Trafic (1,358 registrations), Volkswagen Transporter (1,265), Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (1,148), Ford Transit Connect (1,013), Peugeot Partner (855), Vauxhall Vivaro (827), and Citroen Berlingo (789).
