It is positive to see that sales of light commercial vehicles remained strong in May with a growth of 5.4%. A total of 89,142 new vans registered in May and the market is now up 7.5% year to date. Demand was strong for all segments of the light commercial vehicle sector under 3.5 tonnes, except pickups and 4x4s.
In particular, small vans under 2 tonnes saw an increase of 14.0%, while registrations of medium-sized vans between 2.0-2.5 tonnes rose by 10.2%. Large vans between 2.5 and 3.5 tonnes were up 5.3%.
The pickups segment stabilised, with a decline of -1.8%, however, 2019’s sales are still higher than last year by 4.4%. There are concerns in the pick-up and 4x4 sectors as many of these vehicles are bought by motorists for leisure. The decline is due to consumer uncertainty caused by the current political situation which is also affecting new car sales.
In May, Ford was the market leader with a 30.5% market share, followed by Volkswagen which had a market share of 12.7%.
Offers and incentives are boosting sales alongside the necessity for small van operators to purchase new Euro 6 vans to comply with the new London Ultra Low Emission zone.
As we expected, also the arrival of new models is supporting the market as they provide buyers with modern, highly efficient options.
The light commercials market continues to perform incredibly well in 2019 and dealers expect this positive trend to continue.
To receive a copy of the monthly registration figures please email louise.woods@rmif.co.uk
