Van market bounces back after disappointing March

Overall growth was driven by registrations of large vans, up 28.5% to 15,561 units, representing 71.7% of all new LCVs registered. Medium-sized vans fell by 20% to 3,476 units.

In good news, demand for battery electric vans (BEVs) grew strongly, up 44.7% with 2,439 registrations in April. It currently has 11.1% of the market which is less than half of the 24% share mandated for 2026.

More than half of the UK’s LCV offering is available with a plug, supported by manufacturer discounts and the government’s Zero Emission Van Grant . However, higher upfront costs of BEV fleet renewal, rising energy costs and infrastructure challenges remain barriers to greater uptake.

The latest industry outlook for 2026 from SMMT has been revised downwards, with expectations placing 314,000 units to be delivered this year – 7,000 fewer than January’s outlook.

Mike Hawes, Chief Executive of SMMT said: “April’s improved market is welcome news, despite a tough economic environment. New LCV investment drives growth and decarbonisation but must be sustained by investment in public and depot BEV infrastructure – and a reversal of BIK on double cabs – to build momentum for fleet renewal that cuts emissions and boosts business.”