The Zero Emission Van Plan Coalition, which includes the BVRLA, was established to address the challenges of electric vans. The Coalition is concerned that five months into the new Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, there is little evidence that it has significantly stimulated the LCV market.
Although the overall May market figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) continue to be positive, with registrations for all vehicle segments up in the year to date, van figures are not increasing at the pace required to meet mandated Vehicle Emission Trading Scheme targets. Battery electric vans (BEV) rose 3.5% in May to achieve a 4.2% market share – almost unchanged from last year’s 4.1%. In addition, overall, BEV uptake year to date has fallen -2.1%, delivering a 4.8% market share, down from 5.2%. The Vehicle Emissions Trading Scheme target for each individual brand is 10% this year.
A spokesperson for the Zero Emission Van Plan, said: “The ZEV mandate has been introduced to stimulate supply, but demand is lagging. Electric LCVs are too expensive and struggle to cope with the operational needs of many van fleets, particularly when it comes to charging.
“The Zero Emission Van Plan is clear. For the transition to work, we need increased fiscal support, improved charging, and the removal of regulatory barriers. While many fleets are making the switch and seeing early success, the majority are unable to adopt greener vehicles due to the financial and operational sacrifices that are required.”
These electric vehicle challenges, and the role Government can play in resolving them, form the basis of the Zero Emission Van Plan, which was launched in Parliament earlier this year. The coalition behind the Plan includes the BVRLA, Logistics UK, the REA and its EV forum REcharge UK, the Association of Fleet Professionals (AFP), and The EV Café.
“Policymakers need to take the transition to zero-emission vans more seriously. Vans are the workhorses of the UK economy and the fastest growing part of the vehicle parc. The incoming government must do more to support electric van users,” the spokesperson concluded.
More information on LCV registrations on the SMMT website.
