Van sales in the first two months of the year stand at 32,203 units, down -3.9% compared with the same period last year.
Despite demand for BEVs rising by a third (33.9%) to 3,853 units, their 11.8% share of the market is still less than half than half the mandated 24% target.
The Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders, which released the data, said recent announcements such as the extension of funding for the Plug-in Van Grant until 2027 had boosted the market.
It added that the new Depot Charging Scheme and proposed changes to planning rules for private charger installations will all help the transition.
But it added that natural market demand remained so far behind regulatory ambition that the sector continues to call for government to bring forward a review of the transition, and the regulation governing it.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said: EV uptake remains far below the level required by regulation, despite more than half of all models being available as EVs and with massive discounts on their sale.
“That is unsustainable and therefore requires a wholesale review of the transition to ensure we have a framework that is realistic, deliverable and affordable.”
Meanwhile, LCV registrations rose by a modest 1.1% in February, with 14,641 vans, pickups and 4x4s joining the road.
