A record number of brand new electric vans hit Britain's roads last year.

Latest data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) reveals 20,053 electric vans were registered in 2023 – a sizeable 21% increase on the year before, with the market buoyed by new models launching. December was the best month for pure electric van registrations – uptake jumped 73.8% to 2,964 units.

Some 28 different models were registered during 2023, meaning pure electric vans now account for 5.9% of the LCV (light commercial vehicle) market. The UK is now also the third largest market for battery electric vans in Europe by volume.

The growth comes as strict new rules came into play at the beginning of this month. From January 3, 10% of every van manufacturer’s sales in the UK must be electric this year. To allow van makers to reach this target, the SMMT has called on the government to install more van-suitable charging points, and commit long-term to the Plug-in Van Grant.

SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes said: "Rising demand for new vans in every month of 2023 – along with record uptake of battery electric vans – is positive news for the UK, given the vital role of these vehicles in keeping businesses and the economy moving. Demand for new vans is also essential for decarbonisation and, as the UK’s ambitious mandate for electric van sales comes into effect, every lever must be pulled to make the switch accessible for fleets in every region. 

"If 2024 is to be the year of the electric van, investment in chargepoint infrastructure is mission-critical – bringing with it the successful green transition and economic growth the nation needs.”

Total new van registrations rose by 21% in 2023 to 341,455 vehicles.

Electric van registrations are at record levels but more suitable charging points are needed, says SMMT