Report reveals why electric van take-up is lagging

More than half (61%) of the fleet operators who took part in the research are already using electric vans. Almost half (45%) of those said they face challenges with the real-world range of the vans, while a third (33%) are concerned that public charging is unsuitable for vans.

Of the two in five operators (39%) who do not yet have electric vans on fleet, more than third (38%) said this was because they do not consider electric vans to be fit for purpose and more than one in six (15%) put it down to cost.

Almost half (46%) said they would add e-vans to their fleet if they had a longer range.

Figures show that there were approximately 80,000 electric vans on UK roads at the start of the year, out of total 4.7 million light commercial vehicles (LCVs) – just 1.6% of the UK van fleet.

Manufacturers were targeted with ensuring 10% of all new van registrations were zero emission last year, increasing to 16% this year

“Vans are lagging behind cars when it comes to electrification,” said Keith Shorter, director at Europcar Vans and Trucks. “One reason for this is the demands that their size and weight put on battery range, making progress to longer range vehicle options much slower for vans than cars.

“Our research confirmed that range anxiety is holding back a considerable proportion of would-be electric fleets. However, cost, charging infrastructure and lack of knowledge also play a part.”

To encourage accelerated take-up of electric vans, he argued: “We need the Government to continue offering financial incentives, to see that improvements are made to ensure the existing and future charging infrastructure is suitable for vans and that amendments are made regarding regulations that impact electric vans.

“In the meantime, renting an electric van allows fleets to find out how zero emissions vehicles can work their business, with no risk and minimal commitment.”