In a previous post, we discussed the merits of moving to electric with your van. It seems though that it isn’t quite as popular as it could or should be. According to some reports, companies that operate fleets may hang on to their diesel vans as long as they possibly can.
Why not EV?
Some businesses have stated they can’t operate EVs for several reasons. As we are all aware, EVs need charging during a road trip (unless you’re doing short distances). For businesses, this is a particular nightmare as they have to plan ahead, knowing where charge points are (there are currently around 42 000 charge points in over 15 000 locations in the UK). These have to be factored into the trip.
If a driver has to travel from one end of the country to the other, he’ll require around 4 full charges, depending on the van type. It could be more. It could be that they need to travel around very rural areas where there won’t be charge points available.
Whilst fleet owners are aware of their responsibility to move towards a more sustainable mode of transport, they do feel that they’re caught a bit in the middle and are considering what their limited options are.
Diesel ‘til they die?
One option is to keep a small fleet of diesel vans for those long haul jobs. Owners realise they will need to purchase new vehicles before 2030 as no new petrol or diesel vehicles will be available for sale then. Second-hand vehicles will still be available and of course, petrol and diesel will still be sold.
Keeping a small fleet of diesel vehicles will most likely not be cost effective though as they will need to be maintained yet not driven as much. At the moment, businesses and individuals are going to hold onto their diesel vans as long as they can and hope that cheaper alternatives to EVs are developed.
No more fossil fuels
It isn’t that they don’t want to support the move away from fossil fuels, but they do need to be realistic about running a viable business using EVs.
In a survey in 2020, it was discovered that the most common use for vans was to carry equipment, tools, and materials, followed by delivering or collecting goods. Businesses tended to purchase new vans, and privately owned vans were usually purchased second-hand (82%).
It does look as if diesel vans will be around for a while yet but as always, they need to be fully insured. Whether your van is new or second-hand, check out the best and cheapest van insurance quotes for your van. Simply begin by completing this quick 3-minute form, and you’ll be on your way.