UK new light commercial vehicle sales grew in May, up 5.4%, as 29,142 new vans were registered, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

May was the fifth consecutive month for growth in the LCV sector as buyers responded to new models and competitive offers.

Wider trends seen throughout 2019 continued, with demand for smaller vans weighing less than two tonnes rising most in the month, up 14.0%. Registrations of mid-sized and larger vans weighing 2.0 to 2.5-tonnes and 2.5 to 3.5-tonnes also rose, up 10.2% and 5.3% respectively. Elsewhere, pickups and 4x4s stalled, down 1.8% and 26.3% respectively.

Year-to-date, however, the UKs LCV market remained robust, up 7.5% with 156,489 new units sold and all segments posting rises.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: "Another month of growth for the UK's van market is welcome news, evidence that investment by manufacturers into new models is continuing to help attract buyers. Vans today are more high-tech than ever, with impressive fuel economy, safety features and performance. However, business purchasing is cyclical in nature and for the market to stay strong we need the right economic and political conditions."

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.