Logistics UK: Regulatory alignment of diesel and electric vans is long overdue

Tuesday 12 May 2026

Confirmation today (12 May) that formal changes to the rules governing the operation of goods vehicles have been signed into law marks a significant step forward for the UK’s transition to zero‑emission vehicles, according to business group Logistics UK.  The new regulations will come into force on the 1 June 2026, bringing regulatory alignment of the operation of 3.5‑tonne diesel vans and 4.25‑tonne electric vans in a move described as a “victory for the environment and common sense” by Logistics UK Chief Executive Ben Fletcher:

“Electric vans have faced disproportionate regulatory burdens up to now, and been subject to different rules to their conventionally-fuelled counterparts. The new regulations correct the nonsensical situation that saw standard size electric vans treated as HGVs when it came to  MOTs, driver hours requirements and mandatory tachograph use, unless they were operated under tight geographical restrictions.

“It is only the extra weight from the batteries that moved electric vans into the same category as HGVs, and this has limited the adoption of cleaner electric vehicles by creating cost and complexity for operators looking to decarbonise their fleets.

“Now the legislation has been amended to standardise the sector – a move that Logistics UK and its members have been pressing government on for some time – operators will have the confidence to invest in cleaner electric vans as the additional costs and administration from adhering to legislation designed for HGV operators have been removed. Today’s news marks a victory for the environment and common sense and we are pleased that the Government has listened to our call for change and taken action.

“At Logistics UK, we have been campaigning for full regulatory alignment between 4.25 tonne electric vans and 3.5 tonne diesel to make it easier for operators to make the switch to cleaner fuels. As part of the Zero-Emission Van Plan coalition we will continue to work to improve fiscal support for adopting electric vehicles and accelerating change.

“As operators face growing pressure to decarbonise fleets, regulatory clarity and consistency are essential and the new regulations are a clear indication that the government is listening to the sector’s concerns.”

Logistics UK is one of the UK’s biggest business groups, representing logistics businesses which are vital to keeping the UK trading, and more than seven million people directly employed in the making, selling and moving of goods. With decarbonisation, new technology and other disruptive forces driving change in the way goods move across borders and through the supply chain, logistics has never been more important to UK plc. Logistics UK supports, shapes and stands up for safe and efficient logistics, and is the only business group which represents the whole industry, with members from the road, rail, water and air industries, as well as the buyers of freight services such as retailers and manufacturers whose businesses depend on the efficient movement of goods. For more information about the organisation and its work, please visit logistics.org.uk