VAN drivers in the UK believe electric vehicles (EVs) are now more cost-effective to operate than petrol or diesel equivalents, according to a survey carried out for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles UK, but barriers remain to widespread adoption.
The survey of 100 van drivers concluded that 52% believe they would save money running EVs rather than petrol or diesel models, and more than two-thirds consider that electric vans now suit the requirements of their business.
A major factor influencing the latest views has been the expansion of the Ultra Low-Emission Scheme (ULEZ) through Greater London, producing potentially higher costs for some van operators working around the Capital. The ULEZ scrappage scheme, which provides financial assistance of up to £9,500 to eligible enterprises that have vehicles registered in London, to replace their internal combustion engine van with a fully-electric model, is also encouraging more operators to consider switching to EVs.
Concerns over the usage of EVs remain, however. While operators now accept that such vehicles offer reliability levels as good as and in many cases better than traditional combustion-engined vehicles, more than half of respondents to the survey cited concerns over recharging time as a factor against EV adoption.
Business Vans Award Winners 2024
Business Vans Award Winners 2024
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According to Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles National Fleet Manager Craig Cavanagh, there is no doubt that UK businesses are seriously considering when and how to make the switch to EVs. “Van drivers are recognising the benefits, not only from a sustainability point of view, but also from the perspective of being more cost effective than petrol and diesel models,” Cavanagh said.
“This is particularly true for those located in or around London, following the growth of the ULEZ zone and the Mayor of London’s scrappage scheme fund.”
Volkswagen has its ID. Buzz Cargo SWB Commerce electric van available until 1st August from £379 per month on a three-year Business Contract Hire deal, as part of the brand’s Spring Sales Offer scheme.
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