Policy wins – November 2025

Lower Thames Crossing and 4.25 tonne electric vans.

Government planning to reduce regulatory hurdles to operating 4.25 tonne electric vans

The government published its response to the regulatory flexibility for vans consultation on 24 November and confirmed that it will seek to reduce regulatory barriers to operating 4.25 tonne electric vans.

Under current rules, 4.25 tonne electric vans are treated as HGVs because the additional weight of their batteries pushes them above the 3.5-tonne limit.

The government now proposes to introduce legislation so that electric vans up to 4.25 tonnes are treated in the same way as 3.5-tonne diesel and petrol vans for MOT and drivers’ hours requirements.

The proposals also include expanding the light goods vehicle N1 classification to cover electric vans up to 4.25 tonnes.

Logistics UK has long called for this change and will be maintaining pressure on the Department for Transport to introduce the required legislation as soon as possible.

Government commits to complete the publicly funded works for the Lower Thames Crossing

Announced in the Autumn Budget, the government is committing a further £891 million to complete the publicly funded works for the Lower Thames Crossing, as part of its staged approach, after which the private sector will take forward construction and long-term operation.

Logistics UK has long-called for the its development, due to it being a vital trade route which, when completed will unlock UK logistics, drive growth and help keep supply chains moving across the whole country.