UK registrations of new light commercial vehicles dropped slightly in September, a surprise for what is traditionally one of the industry’s busiest months.
A total of 47,418 new vans, pickups and 4x4s were registered in the month, a 2.1% decline year-on-year.
Figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), how that the modest fall continues 2025’s downward trend, with registrations down 9.8% year to date.
However, the SMMT noted that the September result marks the smallest monthly drop so far this year and remains above pre-pandemic levels, an encouraging sign for manufacturers investing in next-generation electric vans.
Segment performance was mixed. Demand for large vans (over 2.5 tonnes), which is the market’s biggest segment, rose by 3.2% to 32,670 units. That means that large vans account for almost seven in ten (68.9%) of all registrations.
Pickups and small vans also saw growth, up 7.8% and 1.9% respectively, that's despite the new tax measures on double-cab pickups which took effect from April.
By contrast, medium-sized van sales fell sharply by 25.1% to 7,150 units. Vans with 4x4 capabilities, like the Toyota Land Cruiser Commercial and Ineos Grenadier Commercial, saw registrations drop by 13.4% to just 647 units.
The standout performer was the electric van sector, which recorded its strongest month on record.
Deliveries of new battery electric vans (BEVs) surged 41.1% year-on-year to 4,262 units, giving them an 8.9% market share. This is the highest ever recorded for electric vans.
So far in 2025, BEV registrations have climbed 55.9% to 22,118 units, representing 9.1% of total sales.
While the growth is significant, it still remains below the 16% electric vehicle sales target mandated for 2025.
The SMMT said more than 40 electric van models are now available, but warned that infrastructure and investment are key to sustaining progress.
The extension of the Plug-in Van Grant and the launch of the Depot Charging Scheme are expected to help more operators make the switch.
However, the SMMT cautioned that grid connection delays, sometimes up to 15 years, and limited on-street charging access continue to hold back adoption, particularly for fleets without depot facilities.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said the figures underline both the progress and the pressure facing the sector: “September is one of the busiest months for the new van market, so a slight dip in volumes compared with previous strong years is disappointing but unsurprising,” he said. “The growth in electric van uptake is hugely encouraging, but the market is under pressure to deliver the investment necessary for decarbonisation. Manufacturers are delivering a huge choice of models to suit all businesses — now we need better dedicated infrastructure and continuing incentives to drive the switch.”
