“December marked a disappointing conclusion to the year for new LCV registrations, as dealers and manufacturers worked to close the gap and meet the ZEV target for 2024”said Sue Robinson, Chief Executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA), which represents franchised car and commercial vehicle retailers in the UK commenting on the latest SMMT’s new van registration figures.
In December, Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) dealers registered a total of 27,221 new vans and light commercials, a decrease of -8.3%.
In 2024, a total of 351,834 new LCVs were registered on the road this year, an increase of 3.0% from 341,455 units in 2023.
The heavier LCV sectors experienced a decline, with 2.0-2.5t vans falling to 4,704 units from 4,905, reflecting a 4.1% contraction. Similarly, the heavier and most popular 2.5-3.5t vans saw a decrease to 17,653 units from 18,054 in December 2023, marking a 2.2% drop.
December’s registration figures saw an increase in the number of battery electric commercials (BEVs) registered under 3.5t, up 10.4% to 3,271 units. In 2024, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) under 3.5t experienced a 1.3% increase, reaching 20,509 units and achieving a 5.8% market share. Meanwhile, BEV rigid vehicles over 3.5t captured a 0.5% market share with 1,646 units. Combined, BEVs accounted for a total market share of 6.3% for the year.
Sue Robinson added: “In 2024, all model and weight sectors have shown growth, except for pickups and 4x4s. The removal of the user benefit-in-kind commercial dispensation by the Government, from April 2025, is beginning to affect demand in this sector, with an -8.3% year-on-year decline and a significant -28.1% drop in December.
“Notably, BEVs accounted for a total market share of 6.3%, well below the 10% target set by the ZEV mandate. This is particularly concerning as fines for non-compliant vans are set to double from £9,000 to £18,000 in 2025, alongside the mandate percentage increasing to 16%.
“On a positive note, sales of light weight vans up to 2.0t have grown steadily throughout the year, showing a year-to-date increase of 44.5%. These vehicles, commonly used as service vans, may signal growing confidence in this sector of the economy.
“NFDA welcomes the inclusion of a section for vans in the Government's consultation launched last month, which seeks views on proposals to support the UK's transition to zero-emission vehicles. The needs of van operators differ significantly from those of car users and greater attention must be given to on-street charging infrastructure, as many van drivers lack access to home charging facilities.”
