eVan registrations at record levels in September

By Chris Tindall2026-10-05T14:21:00+01:00

Record numbers of electric vans joined the roads in September new figures showed, but the proportion still remains significantly adrift of mandated targets.

SMMT data showed new battery electric van (BEV) uptake reached 4,832 units, an increase of 13.4%.

The automotive group said manufacturers were investing to drive demand with more than 40 different BEV models now available, supported by the plug-in van grant and capable of meeting the majority of fleet operator needs.

However, with a market share of 9.6% in September and 10.8% in the year to date, the SMMT said the number of operators transitioning to BEVs remained significantly below the 24% target set by the zero emission vehicle mandate.

The van figures also showed that the new light CV market rose for the sixth consecutive month, with 49,704 vans, pickups and 4x4s registered – a 4.8% increase.

Large vans delivered the biggest volume growth, up 11.1% to 36,302 units, while medium and small van uptake rose by 2.2% and 13.2% to 7,304 and 1,361 units respectively.

Mike Hawes, SMMT CE, said, “September’s record electric van uptake shows manufacturers are delivering, with investment in new models and substantial discounts helping operators make the switch.

“Yet, even with high fuel prices, demand remains less than half the mandated level due to higher purchase costs, grid delays and a shortage of van-suitable charging.

“Government’s regulatory review must deliver a realistic trajectory, matched by the right support and infrastructure – giving manufacturers and operators the certainty to invest, renew their fleets and cut emissions.”

Chris Tindall

Chris Tindall started writing for the haulage and logistics industry in 2002 and quickly realised there was enough going on to keep him busy for a very long time.View full Profile

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