Commercial vehicle registrations increased by 5.3% in January to 19,939 units, according to the latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

Vans led the growth with a 12.9% rise in January to 18,122 units, accelerating the 12 months to January by 13.2%.

As expected, truck registrations stalled following move to Euro-VI; the rolling year is up 22.6%.

Mike Hawes SMMT chief executive, said: “The overall commercial vehicle market grew 4.4% in January as more robust business confidence boosted van registrations.

“As expected, the pre-Euro-VI rush at the end of last year dented truck volumes in January – a market factor we expect to continue for some months.

"Looking ahead, SMMT is confident that van registrations will continue to grow at a sustainable rate, while truck demand should level out over the full year.”

Download the full January commercial vehicle registration figures from the SMMT.