Battery electric van uptake down in first decline for 13 months

Volumes of new battery electric vans (BEVs) declined in October for the first time 13 months, by -5.8% to 2,132 units, according to the latest figures published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

In the year to date, BEV volumes have increased by almost half (47.4%) to 24,250 units. Still, however, BEVs represent just 9.1% of all new registrations in 2025 – below the 16% share mandated, which rises to 24% in 2026.

Overall, UK deliveries of new light commercial vehicles (LCVs) fell by -15.1% in October with 22,896 vans, pickups and 4x4s registered. The decline follows a good 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.

Declines were recorded across all van sizes during the month, with volumes of the largest LCVs down -7.0% to 16,443 units but still representing the majority (71.8%) of the overall market. Registrations of new medium- and small-sized vans also fell, by -41.2% and -23.4% to 3,347 and 523 units respectively. There was growth in the smaller-volume 4×4 segment, with registrations up 88.0% to 440 units. Demand for new pickups, however, declined by -20.2% to 2,143 units, reflecting the impact of new fiscal measures to treat double cabs as cars for benefit in kind and capital allowance purposes.

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said: "While October’s decline is unsurprising amid the intense economic pressure facing businesses, returning the van market to growth is essential – especially to underpin new investment in zero emission models, which until now had bucked wider trends. Every lever must be pulled to get the market back on track, and transitioned at mandated levels. Accelerating infrastructure rollout and grid connections, in particular, will help ensure government targets are not just an aspiration but are actually deliverable for manufacturers and operators alike."