The light commercial vehicle market staged a recovery in November, with the 31,320 vehicles registered representing the biggest November in UK motoring history.
Compared to the pre-pandemic average, November’s registrations were up 11.4%, and still 9.9% up on last year’s already impressive figure, according to the latest figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
Supply issues caused by a combination of COVID issues in factories across the world, and significant semiconductor shortages are creating some instability in the market, but manufacturers are working hard to minimise any disruption.
Strong recovery in the construction sector and growing business investment, especially in online retail, has seen demand increase, but manufacturers have been prioritising their commercial customers, keeping van and pickup leasing deals fulfilled despite those constraints.
That’s led to growth across the entire market, bar small vans. However, while registrations of these vans weighing under two tonnes dropped by almost 20%, growth in previous months highlights the inconsistency of supply.
Larger vans up to 2.5 tonnes improved by 21.2% compared to the previous November, while full-size models improved by 7.7%. Pickup trucks saw an impressive step forward of more than 31%, showing demand is as strong as ever even if supply is limited.
Overall, the market is up 22.8%, with leasing deals making new models and ever-popular options more affordable than ever.
November’s best-selling van was the Ford Transit Custom, with 5,809 registrations throughout the month. The larger Ford Transit took the second spot, with the Mercedes-Benz Vito in third. Ford’ ranger was the most popular pickup, with 1,074 hitting the road before the end of the month.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive explained:
“A pre-Christmas boost to van registrations will be welcomed by the industry, but it remains a rollercoaster of a market. Demand is clearly robust, but market volatility is likely to remain a feature as supply chain shortages throttle the sector’s ability to fulfil orders. Manufacturers are working hard to try and overcome these shortages and the November deliveries illustrate the success they have been having in the UK.
“Whilst the outlook remains challenging, customers can be reassured of the industry commitment to the commercial vehicle sector, given its importance to the operation of society and business growth.”
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