These are difficult times in the van sector. LCV sales fell -14.9% in April, the fifth consecutive month of decline. The zero emissions target for the van market this year is 16% and the best monthly performance so far has hit just 10%. For 2026, the target increases to 24%, which is problematic.
In this issue of Motor Trader, Guy Bird’s feature on the ZEV Mandate and vans gives real insight into the quandry facing dealers. Steve Bridge, a veteran in the van sector with a long career with Mercedes-Benz before heading up dealer group eStar, believes as a dealer he is in the role of selling vans to businesses.
But, he will not put customers into a product not suitable for them because one part of the government is encouraging dealers and OEMs to hit targets.
And he can forsee a potential future investigation about mis-selling of vehicles to hit targets and not pay fines. Check out the interview, starting P28.
Also, in this issue we have the Motor Trader Top 200 Dealer Groups. Here long-time contributor to Motor Trader, analyst Chris Oakham runs the rule over the financials and finds just how tough it has been for many.
Nearly 80% of dealer group results in this edition of the Top 200 report on the 2023 calendar year, the first ‘normal’ after Covid. Chris charts how the improvement in trading conditions hit pressure on gross margins with falling used car prices in the last quarter of 2023.
There were significant inflationary increases in expenses and overheads and rising interest rates affecting borrowing costs. On expenses and overheads, utilities and wages were the main culprits. The massive increases in electricity prices were highlighted by many groups. Coverage starts P31.
Finally, I would like to draw your attention to the Motor Trader Women in Motor Industry Awards (P59) that are taking place in London in December this year. The awards are open to individuals at all levels. If you or someone you know is driving change, championing gender balance, and creating a more diverse and inclusive industry, we want to hear from you