Dealers are bracing for a sharp fall in pick-ups in 2025 following the government hike in taxation announced in the Budget last year.
Sales are already in decline, down -8.3% in 2024 and this looks likely to accelerate this year, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders, which released van sales figures today.
“A cause for serious concern is the -8.3% drop in new pick-up registrations to 37,582 units – a volume which could fall significantly further in 2025 following government’s decision to tax double-cabs as cars for benefit in kind and capital allowances purposes from April this year.
“Key businesses which depend on these vehicles, from farming and construction to utilities and sole traders, will face considerable additional costs,” it said.
Overall, the UK’s new light commercial vehicle (LCV) market rose by 3% to surpass 350,000 registrations in 2024.
New BEV registration volumes rose by 3.3% to 22,155 units, taking a 6.3% share of the market, well adrift of the 10% required by the ZEV Mandate for vans in 2024.
Mike Hawes, SMMT CEO said: “Vans, 4x4s and pick-ups keep businesses everywhere on the move, making this sector a barometer of the UK economy.
“The best overall volume in three years, therefore, is good news with van makers striving to deliver abundant and competitive EV choice.
“Buyer confidence, however, will inevitably be undermined when charging infrastructure does not meet the needs of fleet operations. A review of EV regulation is crucial, therefore, to reflect current market realities and ensure ambitions are deliverable, without any negative and costly consequences.”
