March saw a 15.9% decline in battery electric van (BEV) registrations, as demand for diesel vans rose, according to the latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
Overall, the UK’s new light commercial vehicle (LCV) market declined by 3.4% in March, against a challenging economic backdrop.
SMMT’s research shows 49,505 vans, pickups and 4x4s joining the road - the weakest new number plate March since 2023, in a month which typically delivers the highest volumes of the year.
Diesel continues to dominate, accounting for more than eight in 10 (85.6%) LCV registrations. Demand for large van models rose by 8.7% to 34,805 units, and medium-sized vans by 2.3% to 8,365 units.
In contrast, just 3,543 battery electric vans were registered in the month, marking a 7.1% market share– the weakest since September 2024.
Uptake of small vans also fell by 53.8% to 732 units, following a 60.8% uplift in March last year
SMMT said that with manufacturers offering some 40 different models of electric vans – more than half of all models available – the decline in the registration of electric vans highlights the immense challenge of decarbonising the sector.
It added that, while BEV demand has risen by 4.3% across the first quarter of 2026, it represents only 9.0% of the overall market – just over a third of the 24% share mandated for the year.
SMMT said that recent announcements, including the extension of funding for the Plug-in Van Grant until 2027, the new Depot Charging Scheme and proposed changes to planning rules for private charger installations, should help offset to some extent the higher upfront cost of BEV purchases and depot infrastructure, as well as the lack of LCV-suitable public charging.
However, it added that more government action was needed. “With natural market demand far behind mandated ambition, the sector continues to call for government to bring forward a holistic review of the van transition,” it said.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said, “A weak March is deeply concerning given this number plate change month often sets the tone for the year.
“Moreover, with fleet renewal now having contracted in 14 of the past 16 months, it reflects poorly on overall business confidence.”
Hawes added: “A thriving market is essential not just to economic growth but to decarbonisation, and it is increasingly alarming to see BEV demand waning when it must accelerate to reach ever-tougher mandated levels.
“With the transition already falling behind schedule, a holistic review of the transition is urgently needed.”
