Diesel preferred by van fleet operators due to EV range worries

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【Summary】Van fleet operators are hesitant to switch from diesel to electric vehicles due to concerns over the limited range of larger electric vans. While smaller electric vans have proven their capabilities, the larger ones are sensitive to payload and may not be able to handle heavy loads. The industry is waiting for electric van models with greater ranges and better load capacity before fully embracing electrification.

FutureCar Staff Aug 17, 2023 9:42 AM PT

Diesel preferred by van fleet operators due to EV range worries

On 29 July, a Fiat E-Scudo made headlines by setting the Guinness World Record for the greatest distance travelled by an electric van in a single charge, covering an impressive 311.18 miles.

This achievement is a clear indication that plug-in light commercial vehicles (LCVs) are making significant progress in terms of range and performance. However, despite this milestone, many fleet operators who rely on larger vans are still hesitant to transition from diesel to electric.

The main concern for businesses is the limited range of bigger electric vans, which is particularly affected by the payload they carry. Many companies have decided to postpone their electrification plans until models with greater ranges and the ability to handle heavy loads become available.

Ben Edwards, a consultant at Arval, the UK's third-largest vehicle leasing company, commented on the challenges faced by electric vans. He stated, "Electric vans have always been a bit of a struggle because there's a question of whether the larger ones are actually capable of doing the job."

He further explained that the advertised range of electric vehicles can be significantly reduced when factors such as passenger occupancy and luggage capacity come into play. This uncertainty surrounding the practicality of electric vans has contributed to the reluctance of fleet operators to fully embrace this technology.