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Demand for LCV’s down -9.6% as economic uncertainty continues

NFDA 05/12/2019

“Registrations of light commercial vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes fell by -9.6% in November, the third consecutive month of decline, as economic uncertainty continues to affect business confidence”, said Sue Robinson, Director of the National Franchised Dealers Association which represents franchised commercial vehicle and car retailers across the UK, commenting on the SMMT’s light commercial vehicle registration figures.

A total of 26,238 LCV’s were put on UK roads in November, compared with 29,035 vehicles in the same period last year.

Registrations of small vans weighing less than 2.0 tonnes and medium vans weighing 2.0-2.5 tonnes fell by -24.0% and -19.4% respectively. Sales of maximum size light commercials 2.5 – 3.5t that represent over 60% of the whole CV market were down -11.4%. Pickups were the only category to see a 17.2% growth in the month. 

Robinson added, “As we enter the final month of 2019, we are expecting the market to stabilise as the WLTP changes work through the system.  

“Positively, the market is still up 1.9% year-to-date, however whilst dealers are still seeing demand for LCVs, many buyers are holding off making purchasing decisions until the current political and economic uncertainty eases.”

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About the RMI

The Retail Motor Industry represents the interests of operators in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man providing sales and services to motorists and businesses. The RMI has a formal association with the independent Scottish Motor Trade Association which represents the retail motor industry in Scotland.