A new study by Transport & Environment (T&E) has found that electric vans are on average 25% cheaper to run per kilometre than the average diesel model.
Analysis by independent European cleaner transport campaign body T&E has shown that, as well as being better for the climate, electric vans (eLCVs) are cheaper overall than comparable diesel vans.
Over a five year cycle, taking into account the total upfront and continued running costs, eLCVs proved 25% cheaper to run then diesel versions. The survey analysed six countries, including the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, and Spain, which account for more than three-quarters of new vans sold in the region.
A survey of 745 fleets across Europe – including more than 120 in the UK – showed that the message of cheaper running costs is already getting through, with more than a third (36%) of those fleets already having at least one electric van, while another third (32%) planned to add one this year.
Despite apparent willingness on the part of fleet managers and drivers, there could well be issues in future as supply is lagging behind demand. Sales of eLCVs in 2021 accounted for 3.5% on new vans, while electric cars accounted for 11.5% of new car sales.
T&E reckons that the supply of zero-emission vans will continue to fall behind demand unless legislation is changed.
T&E’s freight manager James Nix said:
There’s nowhere near enough supply of electric vans. EU lawmakers can change this at a stroke by increasing the CO2 target, which will require van makers to sell more eLCVs.
Higher electric van targets will help cut our oil dependence and save European businesses billions of euros even in this decade. But the drip feed of e-vans on to the market has to end. Member states and MEPs must ensure that EU van CO2 targets rise significantly and quickly.
Mike Manners, Managing Director of CBVC Vehicle Leasing, said it was important for commercial fleets to balance operational requirements against the move to an electrified fleet.
It’s best to undertake the shift in stages, first identifying those vans most suitable to make the switch, and then incorporating lessons from the first group of electric vans into further stages of the electrification process. What we aim to provide is a smooth transition with no downtime.
The Plug-in Van Grant was recently extended for two years to help commercial vehicle fleets reduce the costs of electrifying.
For help and assistance on electrifying your commercial vehicle fleet, call 01283 351200, or email sales@cbvc.co.uk.
