Sales of pick-ups in the UK continue to freefall following tax changes in last years Budget.
Pickups experienced the steepest decline of -61.2% to 404 units in August, down to just 2.8% of the market following last year’s reclassification of double cab pickups for Benefit in Kind purposes.
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), which published the data, said given the sector’s importance to essential industries and fleet renewal, the industry continues to call for policy revision.
Overall, UK new light commercial vehicle (LCV) registrations rose 0.6% in August to 14,445 units.
While August is typically a lower-volume month, with buyers often postponing purchases until the September numberplate change, the market still recorded its fifth consecutive month of growth.
As a result, year-to-date registrations reached 201,671 units, up 4.0% on the first eight months of 2025.
It was a strong month for electric van uptake, with registrations rising 25.9% to 2,395 units and a record 16.3% market share, although August’s typically low overall volumes can exaggerate percentage shifts.
Despite EVs accounting for more than two in three van models on sale, substantial manufacturer discounts and government incentives, year to date market share is still just 11.0% – less than half of the 24% ZEV Mandate target for 2026.
Mike Hawes, SMMT CEO, said, “August’s traditionally low volumes often lead to market volatility – and while a record market share for electric vans should rightly be celebrated, September will show the reality of the transition as the new numberplate drives greater volume.
“With EV demand remaining drastically adrift of mandate targets, government’s decision to bring forward its review is essential, and meaningful change will be required to sustain a market that keeps the economy moving. Reforming the regulation to align with market conditions will drive investment, protect the UK’s competitiveness and deliver a transition that benefits everyone.”
