15,385 new LCVs were registered in the month, driven by the advantage of low interest rate finance packages and discounts.
Continuing the trend set in recent years, the market in August was driven by two key segments: pickups and heavy vans (>2.5-3.5T), both of which saw growth, with demand up 6.9% and 14.4% respectively. Overall performance for the first eight months of the year remained steady, with a 2.9% increase in demand totalling 231,857 new van registrations.
Mike Hawes, chief executive, SMMT, commented: “After a slower July, it is good to see growth in the new van market pick up again in August, with a record made in this traditionally quiet month. To ensure this performance continues, it is vital that government takes the necessary steps to secure economic stability and maintain confidence for operators to continue to invest in their fleets.”
Reg. of vans and LCVs
| Month | Aug 16 | Aug 15 | % Change |
| Pickups | 1,545 | 1,445 | 6.9% |
| 4×4 | 611 | 584 | 4.6% |
| Vans <=2.0t | 1,380 | 1,455 | 5.2% |
| Vans <2.0-2.5t | 9,670 | 8,452 | 14.4% |
| Vans >2.5-3.5t | 9,641 | 8,452 | 14.1% |
| All vans to 3.5t | 15,385 | 14,467 | 6.3% |