Four out of 10 (40%) of UK van drivers will consider an EV when they next look to replace their work vehicle, but there are a number of hurdles they face before making the switch.
That’s according to a new survey conducted by Lombard Vehicle Solutions and indicating the need to make drivers aware of the support available.
The research among UK van drivers found 47% worry there is not enough EV charge points, despite the UK’s growing infrastructure.
Meanwhile, 43% worry about electric van ranges – but 65% of survey participants ticked the box for driving from 1-50 miles daily, meaning they could make the switch here with little difficulty. The average electric van’s full charge can give ranges upwards of 100 miles.
Almost half (47%) think the initial electric van cost is too high, however, more than a third (34%) believe electric vehicles would be cheaper to operate than a diesel equivalent.
But just one in five say their van is compliant with the latest emissions zone standards, when an EV may be the cheaper option for vehicles entering these areas. And there are support schemes for businesses to make the switch.
Furthermore, six in 10 drivers say receiving a grant towards an electric vehicle would make them more likely to switch, revealing the importance of the Plug-in Van Grant and the need to inform van buyers on it.
