Battery electric van registrations reached a record monthly high in September, but uptake remains less than half the level required under the Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate, according to new figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).
A total of 4,832 new battery electric vans (BEVs) joined UK roads during the month, up 13.4% year on year. However, electric models accounted for just 9.6% of September registrations and 10.8% of the market during 2026 to date, compared with the 24% target set by the mandate.
The figures come despite fleet operators having access to more than 40 electric van models, alongside support including the Plug-in Van Grant.
The wider light commercial vehicle market recorded its sixth consecutive month of growth in September. Registrations increased 4.8% to 49,704 vans, pickups and 4x4s, making the new-registration-plate month the strongest of 2026 so far.
Large van registrations rose 11.1% to 36,302 units, while medium and small vans increased by 2.2% and 13.2% respectively.
In contrast, pickup registrations fell 53.8% to 2,658 units. The SMMT attributed the continuing decline to the tax reclassification of double-cab pickups as cars for benefit-in-kind and capital allowance purposes.
For fleet managers considering further electrification, the SMMT identified higher upfront vehicle costs, delays to grid connections and insufficient van-suitable charging infrastructure as continuing barriers.
The trade body said ongoing support through the Plug-in Van Grant and Depot Charging Scheme would be important in accelerating adoption, while the launch of GB Grid could help improve public and depot charging provision over time.
SMMT Chief Executive Mike Hawes said record September uptake demonstrated that manufacturers were investing in new models and discounts to encourage the transition, but demand remained “less than half the mandated level”.
The SMMT is calling for the Government’s review of the ZEV Mandate to reflect the practical timescales involved in van electrification, arguing that greater certainty around regulation, incentives and infrastructure will be needed to support operators planning future fleet replacement.
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