Why Now is the Time for Small Businesses to Switch to Electric Vans

The Work Van Is Changing

For tradesmen across the UK, a van is more than transport — it’s your office, workshop, and billboard on wheels. But the days of running diesel without a second thought are over.

With fuel prices rising, ULEZ zones expanding, and government incentives at their peak, switching to electric isn’t just about going green — it’s about protecting your bottom line and staying ahead of the curve.

1. Lower Running Costs from Day One

Electric vans slash your daily operating expenses in three major ways:

• Fuel Savings – On average, it costs less than half as much to charge an electric van compared to filling a diesel tank. If you charge overnight on an off-peak tariff, savings can be even bigger.

• Reduced Maintenance – No oil changes, no timing belts, fewer moving parts. Less time off the road for servicing means more time earning.

• Tax Advantages – Electric vans are exempt from Vehicle Excise Duty (road tax) and attract lower Benefit-in-Kind rates.

Example: A self-employed plumber covering 18,000 miles a year could save £3,000–£4,000 annually on fuel and maintenance alone by switching to electric.

2. Avoiding ULEZ and Clean Air Zone Charges

More cities are adopting Clean Air Zones (CAZ) and expanding Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZ). Diesel vans can face charges of £10–£12.50 a day to enter — a big hit for trades who work across multiple areas.

An electric van is automatically compliant, meaning:

• You can work anywhere without extra costs

• You can quote more competitively for jobs in city centres

• You don’t have to turn down work because of access charges

3. Customers Want Greener Trades

More commercial clients — especially larger contractors — now prefer or require low-emission vehicles for their supply chain. Turning up in an electric van can win you work competitors miss out on.

Homeowners are also more eco-conscious. For some, choosing a tradesman with a green approach is a selling point.

4. Grants and Incentives Are Available Now

The UK government’s Plug-In Van Grant can knock up to £5,000 off the purchase price of a qualifying electric van. There’s also funding available for installing workplace chargers through the Workplace Charging Scheme.

Grants like these may not be around forever — switching while they’re active maximises your return on investment.

5. A Smoother, Quieter Drive

Electric vans offer instant torque, making stop-start city driving less tiring. The lack of engine noise means you can take calls (hands-free) more easily, and early starts or late-night jobs won’t disturb residents.

6. Debunking Common Myths

• “They don’t have enough range.” Many modern electric vans can do 180–250 miles on a charge — enough for most daily trade routes.

• “Charging takes too long.” With rapid chargers, you can get to 80% in under an hour — often done while grabbing lunch or loading up.

• “They can’t carry heavy loads.” Payload capacities are comparable to diesel vans in the same class.

Switching to electric is no longer a gamble — it’s a smart move that saves money, expands your working area, and strengthens your reputation.

If you’re a tradesman looking to future-proof your business, there’s no better time to make the change.

Book a 24-hour test drive and see how an electric van fits into your working day.