October figures from the UK Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMI) show a healthy growth with year-to-date van sales growth of 18.8%.
The strongest sales are seen in the heavy van sector (2.5t-3.5t), with an increase of 33.7% for October. The best volume increases for the year to date have come from Mercedes, Peugeot and Volkswagen.
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“The increase in van sales is remarkable but may be an underlying reason for the falling truck sales, as operators and logistics companies opt for multiple, smaller, less costly vehicles opposed to a single, larger investment,” said RMI franchised director Sue Robinson.
“Light commercial vehicles require regular replacement as a result of high mileage, wear and tear, so, as the economy hints at a recovery, businesses are finding the confidence to replace an ageing fleet. The ever buoyant internet sales market, coupled with consumer demand for same or next day delivery, means retailers need vans to ensure their products reach destinations on time, which will only have boosted the market again this month.”
Truck sales year to date are still poor says the RMI – down 9.8% – but October registrations were up significantly by 79.9% at 3,158 units.
For October, Daf Trucks and MAN showed the most growth and year-to-date, Scania and Renault trucks are gaining stronger market share.
The RMI adds it is not clear “whether this is a blip as seen last September/October or whether this is the start of a slow recovery on truck sales” after the two year slump.
