Diesel still preferred by van fleet operators despite EV range worries

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【Summary】Van fleet operators are hesitant to switch from diesel to electric vehicles due to concerns about the limited range of larger electric vans and their ability to handle heavy loads. While plug-in light commercial vehicles are making progress, many businesses are holding off on electrification until models with greater ranges and better payload capabilities are available.

FutureCar Staff Aug 25, 2023 10:00 AM PT

Diesel still preferred by van fleet operators despite EV range worries

On 29 July, a Fiat E-Scudo made headlines by setting a new Guinness World Record. The electric van achieved the greatest distance ever traveled on a single charge: an impressive 311.18 miles. This achievement highlights the progress being made in the development of plug-in light commercial vehicles (LCVs).

However, despite this milestone, many fleets that rely on larger vans are still hesitant to switch from diesel to electric. The range of bigger electric vans is particularly affected by the weight they carry, making it a challenge for businesses to find models that can handle heavy loads and offer sufficient range. As a result, some companies have decided to postpone their plans for electrification until more capable electric vans become available.

Ben Edwards, a consultant at Arval, the UK's third-biggest vehicle leasing company, acknowledges the concerns surrounding electric vans. He explains, "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." This skepticism arises from the fact that the stated range of electric vehicles can be significantly reduced when the vehicle is fully loaded or carrying multiple passengers.