Britain’s new light commercial vehicle (LCV) market fell by -20.5% in the first month of 2025, according to the latest figures published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). A second consecutive monthly decline follows robust growth in 2024 but is set against a tough economic backdrop.
Battery electric van (BEV to 4.25T) uptake rose for the fourth consecutive month, supported by the continuation of the Plug-in Van Grant. Uptake grew 12.4% to reach an overall market share of 7.6%, but remains some way short of the Zero Emission Vehicle mandate (BEVs to achieve 16% share in 2025).
The UK new car market also fell, but not as markedly, by -2.5% in January. Weaker consumer confidence and tough economic conditions could explain the fourth consecutive month of decline.
Both hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) recorded volume growth and saw their market shares rise to 13.2% and 9% respectively. Battery electric vehicle (BEV) registrations, meanwhile, continued recent growth trends, with volumes up by 41.6% year on year to take a 21.3% market share.
