Most van drivers ready to switch to EVs, finds study

Two thirds of UK van drivers say an electric vehicle would now suit their business, according to a new study.

More than half also believe that running an electric van would be more cost effective than a petrol or diesel vehicle, according to the survey of van drivers by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.

The firm, which sells the all-electric ID. Buzz Cargo alongside petrol and diesel-powered versions of its T6 Transporter, found that 52% of drivers were convinced that an electric van’s running costs were lower than a traditional ICE van’s.

It also revealed that 67% thought an EV would suit their day-to-day usage, and that almost a third cited the expansion of London’s ULEZ as the key reason driving their decision.

However, it found that worries over charging time remained the biggest obstacle to more widespread uptake, with 57% of drivers saying it was their number one concern.

The poll comes after telematics specialist Geotab estimated that around two-thirds of UK businesses and organisations could switch to an all-electric fleet without any problems. Its study of real-world data showed that the businesses in the UK were better positioned than any others in Europe to transition to electric cars and vans.

Craig Cavanagh, national fleet manager at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, commented: “There’s 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. 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.

“Our first factory-built, all-electric van – the Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo – provides a modern mobility solution for this precise purpose, and we’re encouraged to see van drivers embracing more sustainable solutions.”