For many fleets, going electric is part of the long-term plan. The big question is when. Prices, grants, targets and technology keep shifting, so it’s worth taking stock of where things stand – and what to weigh up before you make the switch.
Where things stand
The rules have changed more than once in recent years. Right now:
New petrol and diesel vans can still be sold until 2035, alongside hybrids, giving fleets more time to plan.
Manufacturers are under pressure to sell more electric vans. Under the government’s ZEV mandate, 24% of new vans each manufacturer sells must be zero emission in 2026 – rising to 34% in 2027.
Grants are still available. A van grant of up to £5,000 is continuing as part of a £1 billion government package running to 2030, alongside support for charging infrastructure.
In short, there’s no rush forced by the law – but there’s plenty of support for fleets that want to move.
The pros
Lower running costs
Charging is usually cheaper per mile than petrol or diesel, especially with depot or overnight charging.
Cheaper servicing
Electric vans have fewer moving parts – no clutch, no exhaust, no oil changes – so routine maintenance tends to cost less.
Clean air zone friendly
Zero emission vans don’t pay clean air zone or ULEZ charges, which adds up for fleets working in cities.
Lower emissions
Switching helps cut your carbon footprint and supports your customers’ sustainability goals.
The cons
Upfront cost
Electric vans still usually cost more to buy, even with a grant.
Charging
Depot chargers need investment and suitable premises, and not every driver can charge at home. Public charging is improving but varies by area.
Range and payload
Heavy loads and cold weather can reduce range, and batteries add weight that can eat into payload. Most electric vans keep similar load space to diesel versions, but it’s worth checking the numbers for your routes.
Resale values
EV technology is moving fast, which makes it harder to predict what vehicles will be worth in a few years.
Specialist recovery
Electric vehicles carry high-voltage risks, so breakdowns and accidents need trained EV technicians.
So, is now the time?
It depends on your routes, your premises, and your budget. Many fleets are taking a mixed approach – switching vans on shorter, predictable routes first, and keeping diesel where range or payload matter most.
Whatever you run, we’ve got you covered
Our team includes fully trained EV specialist technicians, so we can safely recover your electric vans – as well as your petrol and diesel ones.
Electric, petrol or diesel – get in touch, we’re ready when you are.
