Despite an increase in light commercial vehicle (LCV) sales, the electric van market continues to decline, according to the latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
September marked the fourth consecutive month of falling electric van registrations, a trend that has persisted throughout much of 2024.
While the overall LCV market has seen a significant uptick, with more than 48,000 new vans, 4x4s, and pickups registered in September alone, electric vehicles (EVs) are making up a smaller proportion of the mix.
The SMMT attributes this decline to several factors, including the higher cost of EVs compared to traditional diesel or petrol vehicles, a lack of sufficient charging infrastructure (particularly for larger commercial vehicles) and concerns among fleet operators about the commercial viability of transitioning to electric van fleets.
Despite significant investments by manufacturers to expand the range of available electric van models, the SMMT warns that the UK's target of 10% electric LCV sales by 2024 is at risk.
The SMMT has called on the Chancellor to implement measures to accelerate the adoption of EVs, such as extending the Plug-in Van Grant, equalising VAT on public charging, and mandating infrastructure targets to support commercial vehicle charging.
The total market for BEVs has declined 9.2% compared to 12 months ago with January to September registrations showing that 12,944 vans under 3.5-tonnes have been sold compared to 14,296 in the same period during 2023.
Sales of larger vans between 3.5 tonnes and 4.25 tonnes have, however, increased marginally, thanks to a greater acceptance and a degree of clarity on the special dispensation given to Class B licence holders, enabling them to drive a higher GVW van with only minimal training.
As a result, 1244 large electric vans have been sold in the first 9 months of 2024 compeared to 1,075 in the same period during 2023 - an increase of 15.7%.
September saw a huge increase in the number of these vans being registered with sales up 346% from 152 units in September 2023 to 678 in September 2024.
Diesel vans have also seen a signifcant jump in September registrations as the new 74-plate was introduced with an increase of 10.6% for diesel vans under 3.5-tonnes. A total of 40,372 new vans were registered in September 2023 while the 44,638 were sold in the same month in 2024.
Ford continues to dominate the sales charts with the three most popular vehicles overall.
The Ford Transit Custom leads the way followed by its large van sibling the Ford Transit.
Third position goes to the Ford Ranger pick-up truck, while Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Vauxhall Vivaro occupy fourth and fifth place.
Volkswagen's recently updated Transporter continues to sell, ahead of the Renault Trafic.
The trio of small Stellantis vans rounds out the top ten with the Berlingo proving marginally more popular than the Combo and Partner.