Total registrations for vans and trucks in November is 22,834, up 32.5%; rolling year up to 253,244 units. Trucks are up 79.6% to 3,706 in November; but rolling year still down 8.8%. Van registrations are up 26.1% to 19,128 in November.

"November saw the sharpest rise in combined van and truck volumes so far this year as demand continues to recover from a low base. Van registrations have grown since February, whilst trucks surged recently, led by three-axle tractor demand, typically for rental and contract hire work," said Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive.

"Next year will continue to be challenging as consumer and public spending tighten, keeping rolling volumes well down on pre-recession levels however further moderate growth is expected."