Large vans drive LCV growth

Almost 28,000 new vans were registered in April, an 11.8 percent increase on the same month in 2015, according to new figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

The upward trend has continued on the back of a record year, with April being the third consecutive month of growth. In the first quarter of 2016, 3.3 percent more LCVs have been registered compared with the same period last year, said the SMMT. This reflects the current and ongoing stability of the LCV market.

Large vans lead the way

Large vans were the main reason for the continued growth with registration for LCVs weighing between 2.5 and 3.5-tonnes up 22.6 percent to 17,660 vans. These larger vans account for 60 percent of the LCVs sold to date in 2016, with Ford vans once again leading the way. The pickup market, buoyed by the array of recent new launches, grew by a huge 35.4 percent, to 3686 units.

It's not all good news though. Medium vans - those weighing between 2.0 and 2.5-tonnes - saw a decline of 16.6 percent.

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, "Following a quieter start to 2016, it is positive to see the van market picking up with a third consecutive month of growth in April, once again fuelled by increased demand for larger LCVs. The 3.3% rise in registrations during the first four months of the year places the sector in a strong position and on track to maintain stable growth throughout 2016."

Best selling new vans, April 2016