Greater support needed for fleet operators to adopt electric vans

The UK government concluded a public consultation on 18 February on the country’s transition to zero emission vehicles (ZEVs), focused on cars and vans, and the commitment to end the sale of new cars powered solely by internal combustion engines (ICE) by 2030.  

The consultation was divided into two parts, focusing on phasing out petrol and diesel vehicles and refining the Zero Emissions Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate. Logistics UK emphasised members' commitment to decarbonisation and highlighted major barriers to adopting zero-emission vans.  

Key concerns include high vehicle costs, insufficient public charging infrastructure, costly site installations, payload loss and regulatory burdens.  

Michelle Gardner, Deputy Director – Policy, said: “Logistics UK members remain fully committed to decarbonising, but significant barriers are preventing many of our members from being able to adopt zero tailpipe emission vans, including particularly challenging use cases. 

“Overall, many members lack confidence that zero tailpipe emission vans are currently commercially and operationally viable to adopt into their fleets. This presents a significant challenge as the zero emission vehicle mandate targets increase significantly in the coming years. It is critical government works more closely with the logistics industry to understand concerns, address barriers and give operators more confidence to invest.” 

Logistics UK’s consultation response can be viewed by members here.