The new UK van market recorded its fifth consecutive month of growth in June, with registrations rising by 2.7% to 36,700 units, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
June's strong performance rounded off a record first six months for the sector, with overall demand in the year up 3.0% to 191,996 units.
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Heavier vans (>2.5-3.5T) and pick-ups drove June's growth, with registrations up 11.3% and 17.3% respectively, while smaller vans weighing less than 2.0-tonnes were less popular, with demand falling by a fifth (-19.7%).
The picture was the same for the year-to-date, with registrations of bigger vans – up 12.7% – dominating the light commercial vehicle market with a 62.7% share.
Mike Hawes, Chief Executive, SMMT, said, "It's been an encouraging first half for the new LCV sector and, while growth may be slower than the record levels seen last year, the market remains strong with all the signs pointing towards a healthy performance in 2016. Maintaining economic certainty for van operators will be key to the sector's ongoing success."
