Lacklustre LCV sales extend downward trend
LCV sales fell by nearly a quarter in November to 23,570 units, according to new figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.
The decline continues a downward trend seen throughout 2025, with registrations so far this year 11.4% down on the same period in 2024.
Sales dropped in every segment, with large vans down 19.7% to 16,463 units, medium-sized vans falling 20.5% to 3,976 units, and new 4x4s and small-sized vans down 10.3% and 53.8% respectively.
More positively, registrations of new battery electric vans were up by 25.3% to 2,909 units, accounting for 12.3% of the overall market.
This represents the highest monthly share recorded all year, with electric registrations across the year up to 27,159 units, which is 44.7% higher than the same period in 2024. However, year-to-date market share is 9.4% compared to the 16% mandated by government.
Lacklustre sales
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “Lacklustre light commercial vehicle uptake highlights weak economic confidence, and slower fleet renewal means slower decarbonisation.
“While it is encouraging that zero emission van uptake is rising, the pace of change severely lags government ambition, and every lever must be pulled to support demand and protect industry investment, both of which are essential to our shared net zero goals.”
