Commercial vehicle registrations reached a record half-year total of 209,515 to June.

Strong growth in van market is defining factor, with an all-time high of 186,404 vehicles registered in the first six months.

“The record half-year total for commercial vehicle registrations is not unexpected given the significant gains being made in the van market,” said Mike Hawes, Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders’ chief executive.

“Registrations of vans have been increasing strongly for some time, underpinned by economic confidence among large and small businesses, as well as the growing trend for home deliveries.

“The significant rise in truck registrations in June mirrors the sector’s performance in the year so far as it readjusts from the regulatory changes of 2014, while once again it was the heavier vehicles in van, artic and rigid segments that posted the largest rises.”