According to the Department for Transport, the total number of EVs – also called Ultra Low Emission Vehicles or ULEVs – on UK roads by 2020 was just shy 432,000. As more people switch to electric vehicles to reduce their carbon footprints and pollution, this number will only grow.
Although there are many advantages to owning an electrical van, it may not be the right choice for everyone. For more information on electric van ownership, please see the following.
Pros
There are many reasons to buy an electric van. You will see the benefits of electric vans below, including lower running costs and a greater impact on the environment.
Low running costs
Electric vans are much cheaper than diesel alternatives because they use less electricity per mile. On average, some models cost only 2-3p per mile!
It is cheaper to maintain
Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts, and don’t require as much brake pressure. Electric vehicles are often less expensive to maintain than their diesel counterparts.
Environmentally friendly
Electric vans emit zero tailpipe emissions, which means they can help reduce urban pollution. They reduce harmful CO2 and NOx emission.
Incentive Programs
There are many incentives and schemes to encourage electric vehicle use. The Government Plug-in Van Grant is one of these incentives. It can be worth up to 20% off the listed price (up to £8,000), and it also reduces tax burdens for private and business use.
Other incentives include free parking in some areas, free charging and exclusion from Ultra Low Emission Zone fees.
Preparing for the future
Electric vans will be around for many years, so it’s a smart investment to make the right decision now and plan for the future. In an effort to combat climate change, many cities have created low- or zero-emission zones. You can future-proof your operation by purchasing an electric van.
Cons
Charging issues
Although there are approximately 20,000 charging stations in the UK, it is not possible to always find one in your area. It takes around 7.5 hours to fully recharge a car using a regular charger. There are only 1,000 quick charges.
Range anxiety
The range of electric vans is 100 miles, so they are not the best choice for long journeys. The driver would have to stop at various points to recharge, which can lead to significant downtime.
Initial cost
Although electric vans are cheaper to operate, they have a higher initial cost than traditional diesel vans. For businesses that require a fleet of vans, this may make them more expensive.
Are you thinking about buying an electric van? Check out the latest deals from van Sales UK. We are proud to offer electric vans from top brands such as Ford, Nissan, and Renault. To learn more about our vans and discuss financing options, contact us.
