Seven in 10 UK tradespeople considering switch to electric vans, study finds

More than seven in 10 UK tradespeople are considering switching to an electric van for their next work vehicle, according to research commissioned by EV van manufacturer, Farizon.

The survey found that 71% of tradespeople would consider an electric van, compared with 55% of the wider public. For July, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) reported that battery-electric vehicles accounted for 13.9% of new light commercial vehicles under 3.5 tonnes, contrasting with Farizon's data.

Interest was particularly strong among the younger tradespeople surveyed; 85% of respondents aged 18-24 said they would consider an electric van, compared with 33% of individuals aged 65 and over.

Wales recorded the highest proportion of tradespeople considering an electric van at 67%, followed by London at 52%. No respondents in Northern Ireland said they would consider making the switch.

Farizon says this can be reflected in differences regarding public charging infrastructure. Data from the Department for Transport, based on Zapmap figures, shows 122 public chargers per 100,000 residents in Wales, contrasting with 301 in London, compared with 39 in Northern Ireland.

The research also highlighted differences between trades. Half of electricians, builders and gardeners surveyed said they would 'definitely consider' an electric van, while the figures were 18% among carpenters and 20% among plumbers.

For fleets, this demonstrates that switching to electric vehicles - vans or cars - is influenced by the scope of the charging infrastructure. If an area is well-supported, fleets and businesses are more likely to make the switch. Research from Farizon has shown, however, that viewpoints quickly change in areas with weaker EV infrastructure.

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