CV sales rise with increasing popularity of EVs

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【Summary】UK light commercial vehicle (LCV) sales increased by 44.2% in July, marking the strongest July since 2020. Registrations were also up 4.4% compared to pre-pandemic 2019 levels. Demand for zero-emission commercial vehicles, particularly battery electric vans (BEVs), surged by 94.6%, with a market share of 5.5%. However, there is a need for urgent action to reduce energy costs and improve charging infrastructure to promote greater uptake of electric vehicles in the sector.

FutureCar Staff Aug 15, 2023 7:36 AM PT

CV sales rise with increasing popularity of EVs

The number of light commercial vehicles (LCV) registered in the UK continued to rise in July, marking the seventh consecutive month of growth. The total number of registrations increased by 44.2% to reach 26,990 units, making it the best July since 2020, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

This growth in registrations can be attributed to the increasing demand for new vans, pickups, and 4x4s, as well as the improvement in supply chain issues that had previously constrained production. In fact, registrations were up 4.4% compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019.

One notable trend in the commercial vehicle market is the growing demand for zero-emission vehicles. Battery electric vans (BEVs) experienced a significant surge in registrations, with a 94.6% increase to 1,489 units in July. This translates to a market share of 5.5%, up from 4.1% the previous year. Since the beginning of 2023, a total of 10,292 BEVs have been registered, marking a 16.1% year-on-year increase. However, the market share for BEVs has slightly decreased from 5.4% to 5.2% in the year to date.

Mike Hawes, the chief executive of SMMT, acknowledged the positive performance of van sales and emphasized the need for greater electric vehicle (EV) adoption. He called for urgent action to address the issue of soaring energy costs and to improve the provision of dedicated van charging infrastructure. These measures are crucial to boost operator confidence and cater to the unique needs of the commercial vehicle sector. Hawes also highlighted the upcoming ZEV mandate, which will set minimum sales targets for every brand in the following year.