Van drivers back the switch to electric — but it’s about more than just cost

Electric vans are gaining serious traction with UK businesses, with fresh research showing that three quarters (75%) of van drivers now believe an EV would suit their day-to-day needs. That’s a significant jump from 67% last year, according to new data from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, and it points to a wider shift in how the van-driving workforce is thinking about electrification.

One of the biggest factors is access to low-emission zones (LEZs).

Research from Gateway2Lease funder partner Arval - through its annual Mobility Observatory to track fleet trends - reveals that 32% of van fleet decision-makers now say the ability to operate freely within Low Emission Zones (LEZs) and Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZs) is the top reason for going electric — up from just 23% last year.

And it’s not just a London thing. With more clean air zones coming online across major UK cities, diesel vans are facing a mounting operational headache. EVs, by contrast, offer a futureproof solution — no charges, no access issues, and fewer aggravations for urban logistics.

Cost is still a major driver, although the extension of the Plug-in Van Grant will help further on this. In Volkswagen’s survey of 1,000 UK van drivers, 62% said EVs are now more cost-effective to run than petrol or diesel alternatives.

Even with range anxiety still lingering, with 49% citing charging time and 43% listing range as top concerns, confidence is beginning to grow in electric vans. In fact, 69% of drivers who haven’t yet made the switch say they expect to acquire an electric van in 2025 and better model availability is a part of that. Volkswagen says it is now offering multiple battery options across its range, with the eTransporter delivering up to 200 miles, and the ID. Buzz Cargo offering up to 277 miles, depending on variant.

Between access to clean air zones, falling costs, and improved vehicle choice, it’s no longer just big fleets making the move. The majority of van drivers now believe the EV tipping point has already arrived — and they’re getting on with it. You can see a wide choice of electric vans to lease here.