Commercial vehicle registrations dipped by just over 4% last month, after van registrations remained static, year on year, and were accompanied by another sharp monthly dip in new truck sales.
April's van figures were 20,620 – similar to the same month last year – but the SMMT (Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders) forecasts 2014 registrations to pass the 301,000 mark, a rise of more than 11% on 2013.
Meanwhile, truck registrations continued to feel the effect of Euro 6, with volumes down by almost 25% compared to the same month last year.
Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said that van demand remained "robust", but acknowledged that the overall market remained "subdued" as the Euro 6 lag continues for trucks.
"Demand for HCVs is likely to remain behind 2013 all year, but volumes should recover as we approach mid-year," he warns.
Top performers for the month, compared to April 2013, included: 4x4s, up by 17%; 3.5-tonne to 6-tonne rigids, up by 15%; and two-axle artics, up by almost 30%.
