Sales of pick-ups continued their freefall in September, plummeting -53.8% to 2,658 units.
The collapse followed last year’s tax reclassification of double-cab pickups as cars for benefit-in-kind and capital allowance purposes.
Overall, the van market rose for the sixth consecutive month in September, up 4.8% with 49,704 vans, pickups and 4x4s joining the road, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
Often a bumper month with the introduction of the new number plate, September saw the highest monthly volume of 2026 – exceeding even March,1 which is typically the market’s biggest month of the year.
September was a significant month for new battery electric van (BEV) uptake, rising 13.4% to reach a record 4,832 units.
The SMMT said with a market share of 9.6% in September and 10.8% in the year to date, the proportion of operators switching to BEVs remains “significantly adrift” of the 24% target set by the Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “September’s record electric van uptake shows manufacturers are delivering, with investment in new models and substantial discounts helping operators make the switch.
“Yet, even with high fuel prices, demand remains less than half the mandated level due to higher purchase costs, grid delays and a shortage of van-suitable charging.
“Government’s regulatory review must deliver a realistic trajectory, matched by the right support and infrastructure – giving manufacturers and operators the certainty to invest, renew their fleets and cut emissions.”
