UK new light commercial vehicle (LCV) registrations fell 11% year on year in October, the second consecutive monthly decline, according to data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
The SMMT cited uncertainty and regulatory changes continuing to affect the market for 3,121 fewer models being registered last month, as the tally fell to 25,373.
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In October, registrations of larger vans weighing 2.5-3.5 tonnes declined by 19.2% to 16,155. Small vans weighing less than 2.0 tonnes and medium vans weighing 2.0-2.5 tonnes, however, posted rises of 2% (to 1,396) and 31% (4,355) respectively.
The 4×4 segment also rose, up 65% to 226 while pickup demand fell 12% to 3,241.
Despite the negative performance, year to date van registrations were still up 3.1% to 311,989.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: "A second consecutive month of decline for new van registrations gives cause for concern, as uncertainty continues to have a negative impact on the purchasing of big ticket items. We need to reverse this trend, getting more of the latest models onto our roads to help improve air quality especially in urban areas. Crucial to this will be restoring economic and political stability to the UK, giving businesses the confidence to invest in their fleets."
