UK Van Market Dips Slightly – But Electric Vans Surge Ahead

The UK’s new light commercial vehicle (LCV) market saw a small drop of -2.1% in September 2025, with 47,418 new vans, pickups, and 4x4s registered.

While overall numbers dipped slightly, electric van sales hit record highs, marking the strongest month on record for EV uptake.

Despite challenging economic conditions and weaker business confidence, the market remains above pre-pandemic levels -showing resilience as manufacturers continue to invest in modern, zero-emission models. 

• Total registrations: 47,418 (↓2.1%)
• Large vans (2.5–3.5T): up 3.2%
• Pickups: up 7.8%
• Medium vans: down 25.1%
• 4x4s: down 13.4%

The most registered models were the Ford Transit Custom, Ford Transit, and Ford Ranger, highlighting Ford’s continued dominance in the UK commercial vehicle sector.

Electric vans saw record-breaking growth, with registrations rising 41.1% year-on-year to 4,262 units, representing 8.9% of the total market -the highest ever monthly share.

Year-to-date highlights: 

• EV registrations up 55.9% (22,118 units)
• EV market share: 9.1% (target for 2025: 16%)
• Over 40 electric van models now available for UK fleets

While demand continues to climb, the sector still faces challenges -particularly around charging infrastructure and grid connection delays for depots.

The Road Ahead

Government support, including the Plug-in Van Grant and Depot Charging Scheme, is helping drive adoption, but further progress will rely on: 

• Faster grid connection approvals
• Improved public and on-street charging access
• Greater confidence among small and medium fleet operators

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