“Semi-conductor shortages and other vital components have resulted in Light Commercials recording another month of reduced registrations,” said Sue Robinson, NFDA Chief Executive commenting on the latest SMMT light commercial vehicle registration figures.
Year on year, Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) registrations were down -24.6% compared to August this time last year. In total, 15,252 new LCVs were registered to the road, compared to 20,582 the year before.
Year-to-date figures for 2022 records a -24.2% reduction in registrations, from 235,701 units to 178,626.
All sectors of the sub 3.5 tonne light commercial market have been affected by global supply issues. Even the large 2.5-3.5t van market, which is largely considered to be the backbone of the industry experienced a decline of -17.8%. This sector represents a large proportion of LCV sales with a market share of over 73%.
On a positive note, BEV light commercials are improving their market share with a 50.6% increase over the previous year, albeit at the expense of the diesel market which is showing a decline of -27%. Although, still representing a small market share of 5.5% registered in 2022 so far.
As with previous months, Ford continues to dominate the LCV market. The Transit Custom takes first position, and the larger Transit derivative takes second position. The Vauxhall Vivaro is in third position but is very closely followed by the Mercedes Sprinter.
Sue Robinson added: “LCV buyers are driven by costs and viability, particularly business owners, with current Government grants not yet compensating the price variation between fossil fuel and EVs to support the transition. It is therefore encouraging to see that BEV sales are continuing to grow, which is testament to consumers' appetite for a more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to commercials.”
