Van market hits ten-year peak

Van registrations totalled 15,385 August – up 6.3 per cent on last year and the highest since 2006, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

Market growth has been driven by panel vans (2.5-3.5 tonnes) which were up 14.1 per cent in August. For the first eight months of the year, this sector was up 11 per cent at 231,857.

Ford maintained its market leadership for vans up to 3.5 tonnes with a 30 per cent share, followed by Volkswagen at 11.5 per cent.

Mike Hawes, chief executive of the SMMT, said, “After a slower July, it is good to see growth in the new van market pick up again in August, with a record made in this traditionally quiet month. To ensure this performance continues, it is vital that government takes the necessary steps to secure economic stability and maintain confidence for operators to continue to invest in their fleets.”