British businesses reach EV tipping point as more than two-thirds (67 percent) of UK van drivers say an EV would suit their business

Source: Renewable Energy Magazine, at the heart of clean energy journalism
Author: Robin Whitlock

British van drivers believe that electric vans (EVs) are now more cost effective to run than a petrol or diesel alternative, according to a study by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles UK which found that 52 percent of commercial drivers now believe that operating an electric van would be more cost effective compared to petrol or diesel equivalents.

More than two-thirds of the UK's van drivers also say that EVs would suit their business needs and day-to-day work.

Almost one-third (29 percent) of respondents cited the ULEZ expansion as the reason they intend to switch.

The survey further demonstrated that there is growing acknowledgement of the benefits of making the switch to electric, while some barriers to adoption persist.

Almost three quarters of van drivers said that reliability was no longer a reason not to buy an electric vehicle. Charging time remains the number one concern around purchasing an electric van (57 percent).

These numbers underscore the growing awareness and commitment among van drivers to embrace sustainable mobility solutions.

Businesses looking to make the switch to the electric ID. Buzz Cargo SWB Commerce can, until the 1 August 2024, benefit from the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles' Spring Sales Offer, available from £379 per month on a three-year Business Contract Hire deal.

The ULEZ scrappage scheme provides financial assistance of up to £9,500 to eligible enterprises that have vehicles registered in London, to replace their internal combustion engine van with a fully-electric model.

"There's no doubt that UK businesses are seriously considering when and how to make the switch to EVs" said Craig Cavanagh, National Fleet Manager at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. "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."

Customers of the ID. Buzz Cargo can choose between two trim levels that offer business-ready practicality, advanced connectivity, and driver assistance systems: Commerce and Commerce Plus. Both trims are fitted with a 77kWh (net capacity) lithium-ion battery and electric motor, producing a power output of 204PS and delivering an all-electric range of up to 254 miles.

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