Long-awaited reforms for 4.25-tonne electric vans move closer to becoming law

Exciting news is on the horizon for fleets looking to adopt heavier electric vans. New regulatory reforms are making their way through Parliament, aiming to simplify the process for using 4.25-tonne zero-emission light commercial vehicles.

The proposed changes will bring the rules for electric vans weighing between 3.5 and 4.25 tonnes in line with those for 3.5-tonne diesel vans. This move addresses the frustration that heavier electric vans have been treated like heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), even though they serve the same purpose as regular light commercial vehicles - and can be driven, like 3.5 tonne vans, on a standard driving licence.

If given the green light, these reforms will take 4.25-tonne zero-emission vans out of the HGV testing system and put them into the Class 7 MOT category. This means their first roadworthiness test would be after three years instead of one, with annual tests following. This change is expected to cut costs and reduce paperwork for operators.

Additionally, the draft regulations will exempt these vehicles from EU-derived drivers’ hours and tachograph rules, placing them under UK domestic regulations instead. This means no more need for tachographs, making it easier for fleets with both diesel and electric vans to comply. Speed limits will also match those for lighter vans.

These changes build on earlier reforms from June 2025, which allowed people with a standard category B driving licence to drive zero-emission vans up to 4.25 tonnes, acknowledging the extra weight from battery technology. Together, these measures aim to break down the barriers that have slowed the adoption of larger electric vans.

The British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association, which has been advocating for these changes through its Zero Emission Van Plan, is thrilled. They believe the proposals will make heavier electric vans much more practical for fleet use by cutting down on red tape and operational headaches.

The Department for Transport’s explanatory memorandum highlights that these changes are expected to benefit businesses by lowering testing costs and compliance requirements, without compromising road safety. Feedback from consultations shows strong support from the industry, especially from operators who see 4.25-tonne electric vans as crucial for keeping payloads on par with diesel models.

The regulations still need approval from both Houses of Parliament before they can take effect. Until then, the current rules remain in place. However, fleets are already looking at these reforms as a key factor in expanding the use of larger zero-emission vans in their commercial operations.

Gateway2Lease has a wide range of van leasing deals and our leasing executives can help with guiding you to the right deal or addressing the issue of van electrification.