How business fleets could maximise electric van range

As the 2030 Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate edges closer and businesses are becoming more sustainable, electric vans are proving to be a viable alternative to traditional ICE vehicles. But one of the main concerns when adopting electric vehicles (EVs) is their range. How far can they really go? Are electric vans suitable for long distances?  

In this article, we explore how businesses could maximise the electric van range for long distance and identify recommended models available in the UK for high-mileage operations.  

Understanding electric van range  

Electric van range refers to the distance a van can travel on a single charge. The range of an electric van varies depending on factors such as battery size, driving conditions, payload, and driving habits. Most electric vans today offer ranges that are more than sufficient for daily operations, but what about longer trips? For businesses that rely on regional or national deliveries, a longer range is essential.  

Long range electric vans  

Longer range electric van models are designed to tackle long-haul routes without compromising on performance.  

One notable example could be the Mercedes-Benz eSprinter, which could (based on WLTP data) cover up to 83 miles on a full charge, making it a great option for city deliveries. However, for businesses that need even longer ranges, options like the Vauxhall Vivaro-e stand out, offering an impressive WLTP range of up to 200 miles on a charge. When accounting for real-world driving conditions, this could reduce to around 129 miles, which is still ample for many businesses.  

How to maximise the electric van range  

For businesses that rely on electric vans for high-mileage operations, it’s important to adopt strategies that maximise the range and efficiency of the vehicle. Here are some tips to help your fleet get the most out of its electric vehicles:  

Optimise route planning  

Using route optimisation software can help you plan the most efficient routes, minimising the distance driven and reducing unnecessary detours. With the EV Routing feature in the Allstar Co-Pilot app, drivers can easily map out their trips, while the app conveniently suggests charging stops along the way.  

Charge strategically  

Charging at the right times and places could play a part in maintaining the battery of an electric van but also helps manage charging costs effectively. Home charging stations and workplace charging points often offer cheaper electricity rates, while public chargers tend to be more expensive, according to data from the Allstar AllCosts report. If charging in public, plan your trips so that you can charge during off-peak hours, which could lower your overall charging costs.  

Monitor driving habits  

Driving style plays a big role in the range of an electric van. Gentle acceleration and deceleration, maintaining steady speeds, and avoiding excessive idling all contribute to better energy efficiency. Educating your drivers on eco-driving techniques can help extend the vehicle’s range and improve overall performance.  

Consider battery size and charging infrastructure  

When choosing an electric van, the battery size will play a crucial role in determining its range. Larger battery packs allow for longer distances on a single charge. However, it’s equally important to consider the availability of charging infrastructure. Businesses could invest in reliable charging stations at key locations to ensure that drivers have access to fast, rapid and ultra-rapid charging when needed.  

Conclusion  

Electric vans are no longer just for short, local deliveries. With the right models and strategies in place, businesses could effectively use electric vehicles for high-mileage operations without worrying about range limitations. By choosing vans with longer ranges, optimising charging, and using efficient driving techniques, companies could keep their fleets running more efficiently and reduce operating costs.  

If you’d like more information about how Allstar Chargepass can help your fleet with the adoption of electric vehicles, click here.