Electric Vans

Electric Vans are here to stay.

Electric vehicles (EVs) have revolutionized the automotive industry, and now, their impact is extending to the world of commercial transportation. In the UK, the demand for electric vans is soaring, driven by the increasing awareness of environmental responsibility and the need for cost-effective solutions. With their zero emissions, lower operational costs, and advanced technological features, electric vans are becoming a popular choice for businesses across the country.

Advantages of Electric Vans

1. Environmental Benefits

Electric vans offer a significant reduction in carbon and nitrogen dioxide emissions compared to their diesel counterparts. With the UK’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, the transition to electric vehicles is crucial. By adopting electric vans, businesses can contribute to a greener future and improve local air quality.

2. Cost Savings

Although electric vans have a higher upfront cost than traditional diesel models, the long-term savings on fuel and tax make them a financially wise investment. Electricity costs significantly less per mile than conventional fuels, resulting in substantial savings on operational expenses. Additionally, electric vans benefit from lower maintenance costs, with fewer moving parts and fewer fluids to replace.

3. Range and Charging Infrastructure

The range of electric vans has substantially improved in recent years, addressing one of the primary concerns for businesses. With an average range of 200-300 miles on a single charge, electric vans now offer the necessary flexibility for most commercial applications. Furthermore, the UK’s charging infrastructure continues to expand, with an extensive network of public and private charging stations, ensuring convenient access to charging facilities.

4. Technological Advancements

Electric vans come equipped with advanced features and technologies that enhance both driver experience and safety. Many models offer multiple driving modes, allowing users to optimize energy efficiency or enjoy a more dynamic driving experience. Additionally, electric vans often incorporate regenerative braking systems that capture energy during deceleration, further increasing their efficiency.

The Growing Availability of Electric Van Models

1. Citroën Electric Vehicle Range

Citroën is at the forefront of the electric vehicle revolution, offering a range of electric vans that combine practicality, style, and advanced technology. The Citroën ë-C4 electric and C5 Aircross SUV Hybrid are standout models, providing a silent driving experience, impressive ranges, and unique features such as Advanced Comfort Seats. The Citroën ë-Berlingo Electric and ë-Spacetourer Electric offer unrivaled versatility and passenger comfort, making them ideal choices for families and businesses alike.

2. Arrival’s Purpose-Built Electric Vans

Arrival, a prominent player in the electric vehicle market, has partnered with global companies like UPS to develop purpose-built electric vans. These vans are designed to meet the specific requirements of businesses, offering efficient and sustainable transportation solutions. Arrival’s microfactories, located in local communities, utilize innovative assembly methods and prioritize recyclability, contributing to a more localized and environmentally friendly production process.

3. Other Electric Van Models

Various other manufacturers, including Mercedes-Benz and Vauxhall, have also entered the electric van market, offering their own unique models designed to meet the diverse needs of businesses. These electric vans provide ample cargo space, advanced safety features, and competitive driving ranges, ensuring that businesses can find a suitable electric vehicle for their specific requirements.

Government Support and Incentives

The UK government recognizes the importance of transitioning to electric vehicles and has implemented several incentives and support programs to facilitate this shift. The Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) offers grants for electric van purchases, covering a portion of the vehicle’s cost. Through the plug-in vehicle grant, businesses can receive financial assistance of up to £5,000 for eligible electric vans with low CO2 emissions and sufficient electric range.

Additionally, the government has invested in expanding the charging infrastructure across the country, making it easier for businesses to access charging stations. The commitment to improving the charging network ensures that electric van users have convenient and reliable charging options, enabling seamless operation without range anxiety.

Challenges and Future Outlook

While the adoption of electric vans is gaining momentum, several challenges must be addressed to accelerate their widespread use. The availability of charging infrastructure needs to continue expanding, particularly in rural and remote areas, ensuring that businesses have reliable charging options regardless of their location. Moreover, the upfront cost of electric vans remains a barrier for some businesses, highlighting the importance of continued government support and incentives to make these vehicles more accessible.

Looking ahead, the future of electric vans in the UK appears promising. With advancements in battery technology, the driving range of electric vans is expected to increase further, alleviating concerns about limited mileage. As the market grows, economies of scale will lead to more competitive pricing, making electric vans an increasingly cost-effective solution for businesses of all sizes.

Conclusion

The rise of electric vans in the UK signifies a significant shift towards sustainable and efficient transportation solutions. With their environmental benefits, cost savings, and technological advancements, electric vans are becoming an integral part of commercial fleets across the country. Manufacturers like Citroën and Arrival are spearheading the market, offering purpose-built electric van models that meet the specific needs of businesses.

Supported by government incentives and an expanding charging infrastructure, the future of electric vans in the UK looks promising. As businesses embrace these vehicles, they contribute to a cleaner and greener future while enjoying the numerous financial and operational advantages that electric vans offer. With ongoing advancements in technology and continued government support, electric vans are set to revolutionize the commercial transportation sector, paving the way for a sustainable and efficient future.

Diesel isn’t clean enough, petrol its economical enough so we are left with water powered cars and electric cars. Wont be seeing water powered cars for a while so here we are.

These vans of course are not for everyone, and its early days in terms of development but one thing is for sure, ranges will get longer, batteries cheaper and prices lower. At the moment they are great for city driving but there is a very limited choice. The resale value is fantastic, the range means a daily charge is required.

Small Vans

Is by far the most popular and its due out for 2020

Medium Vans
The Electric VW Transporter and the Mercedes Vito both are which are now in UK stock and for sale
Due end of 2020, These will instantly become the most popular zero emission vans ever made. The range is likely to initally be 100 miles in warm weather but there are some significant grants about to fit a charger. Bit like your iPhone just top it up whenever you can. As time goes on there are likely to be battery upgrades.

Large Vans
The most popular and of course capable are the Renault Master that has been out since 2017. VW launched the Electric VW Crafter in 2021.

Chassis Cabs
– at the moment there are no chassis cabs to note or available for sale
Try back in a year or so. Apart from the Renault Master Electric

Sporty Vans
Yeah right ! Its unlikely to see customised Sporty electric vans for some time.
You never know as ABT actually make the electric VW Transporter and the
VW Transporter ABT vans. ABT is clearly supported by VW which is refreshing as so many other companies are tied to Tesla and his 10PM satellites.
You could look at the Ford Transit PHEV but it isnt a real electric van. Sales are poor and we wonder where the market is on this.

Pros and cons
– Electric vans are whisper quiet so this poses a bit of a challenge  to pedestrians. Swift Silent Deadly? Seal Team 6 no electric cars. You could say its great as they won’t cause noise pollution in city centres but if you have ever lived next to a dual carriage way the engine isn’t the noisy part at speed
– Its great that these vehicles produce no Co2 or Nitrous Dioxide. The charging process  produces loads whether its in the manufacture of tonnes of batteries or the coal fired  power stations. Time will tell.
– Acceleration. They are fast, or FF Fast as Tesla says on their gearsticks as a bit of a laugh.
– Tax . You get a grant in most cases for going electric. Must be a nice feeling receiving rather than giving for a change. There are grants on the chargers too.
New Ford Transit Double Cab soon to be available in electric as the PHEV .

Charging you electric van
You will need to join  club such as Pod Point to allow charging away from home