UK deliveries of new light commercial vehicles (LCVs) fell by -15.1% in October to 22,896 vehicles,
The decline follows a robust September market and reflects a contraction in fleet renewal across 2025, down -10.2% to 264,160 units in the year to date, amid weak business confidence and a tough economic environment.
Demand for new pickups fell by -20.2% to 2,143 units, reflecting the impact of new fiscal measures in the last Budget.
Volumes of new battery electric vans (BEVs) also declined for the first time 13 months, by -5.8% to 2,132 units.
Year to date, BEV volumes have increased by almost half (47.4%) to 24,250 units but they still represent just 9.1% of all new registrations in 2025, well below the 16% share mandated which rises to 24% in 2026.
Mike Hawes, SMMT CEO said the decline was “unsurprising” given the intense economic pressure facing businesses.
