British van drivers believe electric vans (EVs) are now more cost-effective to run than petrol or diesel alternatives, according to a study by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles UK.
The survey revealed that 52% of commercial drivers believe that using an electric van would be more cost-effective than using petrol or diesel equivalents. More than two-thirds of UK van drivers also stated that electric vehicles would meet their business needs and day-to-day work. About 29% of the respondents cited the ULEZ expansion as the reason for their intention to switch to electric vans.
The survey also showed that there is a growing awareness of the benefits of transitioning to electric vehicles, although some barriers to adoption still exist. Almost three-quarters of van drivers said that reliability was no longer a reason to avoid purchasing an electric vehicle. However, 57% of respondents expressed concern about the charging time, which remains the number one barrier to purchasing an electric van.
These findings demonstrate the increasing awareness and commitment among van drivers to embrace sustainable mobility solutions. Businesses interested in switching to the electric ID. Buzz Cargo SWB Commerce can take advantage of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ Spring Sales Offer, available from £379 per month on a three-year Business Contract Hire deal until August 1, 2024.
Furthermore, the ULEZ scrappage scheme offers financial assistance of up to £9,500 to eligible enterprises with vehicles registered in London to replace their internal combustion engine vans with fully-electric models.
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.”
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 77 kWh (net capacity) lithium-ion battery and electric motor, producing a power output of 204 PS and delivering an all-electric range of up to 254 miles.
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