Big increase in new LCV registrations in October

Date: Monday, November 5, 2018 | Author: Sean Keywood

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter was the UK's biggest-selling 3.5t van in October

The UK new LCV market grew by 14.1% year-on-year to 28,494 units during October.

According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), the most significant growth was seen in the largest market sector, for 2.5t to 3.5t vans, which increased by 27.6% to represent more than 70% of total LCV registrations.

Pick-up registrations were also up, by 3.2%, but there were declines for vans weighing less than 2.0t – down by 24.9% - and between 2.0t and 2.5t – down by 14.8%.

Registrations of 4x4 commercials were up by 585% - but this only meant 137 were sold, up from 20 in October 2017.

For the year to date, the overall new LCV market is down 1.6% on 2017.

SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes said: “While it is positive to see a boost for new vans in October, the growth comes on the back of a turbulent 10 months, with ongoing fluctuations in demand.

“Although the sector remains strong, we expect this trend to play out over the remainder of the year, as ongoing political uncertainty affects business confidence and hence operator investment.”

The Ford Transit Custom was the biggest seller in October, with 3,927 models leaving showrooms, followed by the Mercedes Sprinter (2,840) and the Ford Transit (2,494).

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