New LCV Market Continues Downturn for Ninth Consecutive Month as BEV Demand Endures

“August’s figures have seen the new light commercial vehicle market contract across every segment” 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 new van registration figures.

In August, light commercial vehicle (LCV) dealers registered a total of 14,365 new vans and light commercials, reflecting a -13.3% decrease compared with the same month last year. This marks the ninth consecutive monthly decline in registrations, as demand has continued to fall throughout 2025.

Demand was particularly weak in the pickup segment, with registrations down -25.8% at 1,040 units. Vans under 2.0 tonnes sharply decreased by -17.6%, while 4x4 LCVs decreased by -13.9%. Additionally, vans between 2.0–2.5 tonnes were down -14.0%. Those over 2.5–3.5 tonnes, the largest sector, fell by -11.5%.

Conversely, BEV demand increased by double (109.5%) in August, totalling nine months of consecutive growth. BEVs represent a market share of 13.0% while the overall market year to date is -11.4%. The BEV share remains some distance below the 16% mandated target.

Sue Robinson concluded: “It is of major concern that the light commercial vehicle sales is seen as a barometer of the strength of the economy and year to date LCV registrations have declined at -13.3%. Dealers must look ahead to September for some growth in the market other than BEVs.”