Print

Posted in:

LCV registrations fall in May

Van registrations declined in May, with the downturn attributed to a market rebalance following a period of very strong demand.

groupofvans
SMMT found that LCV registrations fell -5.3% in May.

The figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) show a total of 26,982 new vans were registered last month, representing a fall of -5.3%.

Although demand for pickups continued to grow – up 26.2% – all other segments declined. Registrations of vans weighing 2.0-2.5 tonnes were down 2.1%, while vans weighing 2.5-3.5 tonnes fell 10.1%. The under 2.0 tonne segment remained steady, with a 0.8% decline. Rigids from 3.5t to 6.0t were down 8.9%.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said, “LCV registrations have experienced a period of stellar growth in recent years, so this decline was expected as the market stabilises. To put this performance into context, overall demand remains strong with year-to-date registrations up 51.2% compared with the same period five years ago, and we expect demand to remain stable at similar levels throughout the year.”

Year to date, the LCV sector was down 5.0% to 147,577 units. Pickups remained upbeat with 19.0% growth but vans weighing under 2.0 tonnes were down 25.2%. Smaller falls were seen for vans 2.0-2.5t, down 0.8%, and 2.5t-3.5t, which fell 4.2%.

For more of the latest industry news, click here.

Written by Natalie Middleton

Natalie has worked as a fleet journalist for over 20 years, previously as assistant editor on the former Company Car magazine before joining Fleet World in 2006. Prior to this, she worked on a range of B2B titles, including Insurance Age and Insurance Day.

Natalie edits all the Fleet World websites and newsletters, and loves to hear about any latest industry news.

7057 posts