Van drivers could save around £2,400 a year in fuel costs by switching from diesel to an electric van and charging at home or overnight at a depot, according to new research from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.
The manufacturer claims the difference could cut annual energy costs by as much as 87%, at a time when rising diesel prices are putting renewed pressure on van operators and businesses.
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles surveyed more than 1,000 UK van drivers, with 58% citing the difference between diesel prices and EV charging costs as a key reason for considering the switch to electric.
According to the research, the average van driver covers 13,190 miles a year. Volkswagen calculates that covering this distance in a diesel van would cost around £2,770 annually, compared with £369.24 in an electric van charged at home or overnight at a depot.
That represents a claimed annual saving of £2,400.70, although the actual cost of running an electric van will depend heavily on electricity tariffs, where and when the vehicle is charged, its efficiency and individual driving patterns.
The survey also suggests attitudes towards electric commercial vehicles are changing. Two-thirds (66%) of respondents said they believe EVs are suitable for their business, while 61% said they plan to purchase an electric van within the next 12 months.
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles says higher fuel costs, combined with potentially lower servicing costs and the smoother, quieter operation of an electric powertrain, are making EVs increasingly attractive to businesses.
ID. Buzz Cargo offers up to 277 miles
Volkswagen’s current electric commercial vehicle range includes the ID. Buzz Cargo, which uses a 79kWh net battery and produces 286 PS (210kW).
The model has a WLTP range of up to 277 miles and is available in Commerce and Commerce Plus trim levels.
Prices start from £26,265 excluding VAT after deduction of the Plug-in Van Grant, with the range offering a combination of load-carrying practicality, connectivity and driver assistance technology.
For operators requiring a larger commercial vehicle, Volkswagen also offers the e-Transporter. Depending on specification, it provides up to 6.8 cubic metres of load volume, a payload capacity of up to one tonne and an electric driving range of up to 225 miles.
With diesel prices having risen significantly over the past year, Volkswagen’s figures highlight the potential operating-cost advantage of electric vans for businesses able to make regular use of lower-cost home or depot charging.
