Logistics UK welcomes Government consultation on electric vans

The consultation, which runs until March 3, provides the opportunity to deliver regulatory alignment between 4.25 tonne electric vans and 3.5 tonne diesel vans.

Logistics UK head of infrastructure and planning policy, Jonathan Walker, said: “The current situation, where 4.25 tonne electric vans are treated as HGVs in terms of MOT and driver hours requirements, is nonsensical and is limiting the adoption of cleaner electric vehicles. The vehicles are the same size and used to perform the same tasks as traditional vans: it is only the extra weight from the batteries which moves them into a heavier weight category.

“From an operational point of view, the vehicles are the same and aligning regulations will make it easier to integrate electric vehicles into fleets.”

Among the changes being considered is a proposal to transfer the annual testing of zero emission goods vehicles (ZEGVs), with a GVW of 3.5t to 4.25t, from the heavy vehicle testing system to the MOT network, with the tests used for 3t to 3.5t goods vehicles put in place.

It would also amend annual testing schedules for ZEGVs, with a MAM of 3.5t to 4.25t, so their first test is after three years from first registration (and annually thereafter).

Furthermore, the Department for Transport (DfT) suggests the removal of electric vehicles (EVs) with a MAM of 3.5t to 4.25t (and when used with a trailer in a combination with a MAM up to 7t) from the requirements for tachograph use, the assimilated drivers’ hours rules (Regulation (EC) 561/2006, as it has effect in the UK) and specific road transport working time rules when used within Great Britain (GB).

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