Demand for electric vans in the UK grew by 21.4% in the first month of 2022 compared to January 2021, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders’ (SMMT) latest figures.
While the overall market share of electric light commercial vehicles (e-LCV) is still some 3.7%, the number of electric vans registered has grown from 533 units in January 2021 to 647 units in January 2022.
The industry body forecasts that electric van uptake will climb by 81.3% this year to 23,130 units as OEMs plan a number of key model launches.
This would give e-LCVs a 6.4% market share, up from 12,759 units or 3.6% share in 2021.
If the SMMT’s predictions are correct, then roughly one in 16 new vans will be fully electric in 2022.
Despite the growth in the BEV market, the LCV market as a whole fell by 26.9% in January to 17,566 units sold.
But while this was the weakest start to the year since 2013, the SMMT points out that: “January has historically been a volatile month due to the intermittent nature of fleet renewal.”
January 2021 was always going to be a tough month to beat when new models and compelling deals saw registrations reach 24,029 units.
“Despite the slow start, the van market is expected to post another strong year,” said the SMMT’s chief executive Mike Hawes.
“While chip shortages, rising inflation and increased energy costs will have an impact, growth is still anticipated given the inexorable rise of home deliveries and broader economic recovery.”
Mr Hawes continued: “With more battery-powered vans coming to market, the demand for these new technologies seen in January is likely to continue across the year. With uptake rates still lagging the new car market, which has the same end of sale date, the importance of bringing every lever – purchase incentives, fiscal measures and recharging infrastructure investment – to bear on this critical sector is self-evident.”