Electric Vans: The Journey Towards Greener Fleets in the UK
With a swift turn around Bishop’s Stortford’s training center, an electric van from Openreach, BT’s fibre broadband subsidiary, showcases the ease of maneuvering despite carrying a full load. The quick response of the van’s acceleration is surprising, given its hefty cargo. However, the shrill of its proximity sensor serves as a reminder of how close it came to a costly paint job.
Openreach’s fleet includes 6,000 electric vans, making it the second-largest commercial fleet in Britain, with plans to add 1,000 more by March. This transition from diesel to electric is vital for reducing the UK’s carbon emissions, with vans contributing 18 million tonnes or 12% of all transport emissions as of 2023. Despite advancements in major fleets, electric van sales in the UK have not met expectations, presenting challenges in the broader adoption.
Government targets under the zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate aim for 16% of new vans to be electric by 2025. However, manufacturers only achieved 9.5%, amid an overall market decline of 10%. This discrepancy has sparked debates between manufacturers and major buyers about the pace of transitioning to electric vehicles.
For consistent routes like the Royal Mail, which operates the UK’s largest fleet of about 43,000 vehicles, the switch to electric is economically viable. The predictable daily routes and overnight depot returns allow for cost-effective battery size selection. Additionally, Royal Mail has introduced micro-electric vehicles and heavy electric lorries for zero-emission deliveries.
Cost efficiency is a significant factor for businesses switching to electric vans. According to a 2024 report by the Centre for Economics and Business Research, European sole traders could save around €14,000 (£12,200) over three years compared to diesel counterparts. Despite higher upfront costs, like the E-Transit Custom starting at £43,630 versus £33,750 for diesel, savings from cheaper charging and discounts for bulk orders make electric vans appealing.
Charging infrastructure remains a challenge, especially for those relying on public chargers. Openreach has mitigated this by installing home chargers for employees and partnering with companies for depot use. Their bulk charging agreements also help reduce public charging costs.
Judy O’Keefe, director of fleet at Openreach, appreciates the reliability of electric vehicles, reducing costly roadside rescues. “They are way more reliable,” she stated, noting the decrease in breakdowns and maintenance needs. Concerns over range anxiety persist, but data shows sufficient charge for engineers’ routes, alleviating some fears.
Despite missing targets, flexibility within the ZEV mandate allows manufacturers to earn credits for selling more plug-in hybrids or trading credits between cars and vans. The thinktank New Automotive estimates the actual 2025 target was about 9.35%, suggesting manufacturers might avoid fines. However, Mike Hawes from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders argues the industry is far from meeting goals.
The targets are set to rise, with a 24% goal in 2026 and 70% by 2030, leading to a ban on petrol and diesel vans in 2035. Major UK van makers include Ford, Stellantis, and Volkswagen, with Chinese brands like Maxus gaining traction. Stellantis, despite its Cheshire plant, faces challenges, having closed a Luton factory due to low demand and overcapacity.
Eurig Druce from Stellantis highlights difficulties in complying with mandates and suggests revisiting target trajectories. However, companies like Openreach and energy firms argue for quicker adoption, emphasizing the “moral imperative” of reducing emissions alongside financial benefits.
Dominic Phinn from the Climate Group notes strong demand for electric vans among big fleet members like Tesco and British Gas. Ben Nelmes of New Automotive points out that manufacturers are under pressure due to insufficient demand and lower profits from electric vans.
As electric vans filter into the secondhand market, more sole traders will have access to greener options. Jordane Roach, an Openreach engineer, expressed satisfaction with the electric van’s performance, stating, “It’s so much better. I’d never go back to a diesel.”
Original Story at www.theguardian.com