The Government has confirmed that new diesel and petrol vans can be sold until 2035, along with hybrids, giving fleets more time to switch to zero-emission vehicles.
While welcomed by many in the fleet sector, the need for stronger, more practical incentives remains a concern. Paul Hollick, chair of the Association of Fleet Professionals, said the change offers 'breathing space' for van operators who currently face challenges with range, payload and cost. However, he warns that without meaningful support, the move risks simply delaying progress. Hollick urged ministers to review recommendations in the Zero Emission Van Plan, developed with BVRLA and other stakeholders.
Electric van registrations fell short of the Government’s 2024 ZEV mandate, which required 10% of new vans to be zero-emission. Battery electric van uptake grew just 3.3%, reaching 6.3% market share – unchanged from 2023.
The Government extended the plug-in van grant to April 2026, offering up to £2500 for small vans and £5000 for larger ones. Fleets now await the outcome of a consultation on regulatory definitions for 4.25-tonne electric vans, the results of which, many believe, could accelerate electric van adoption.