In response to today’s announcement from the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV)*, the BVRLA has reemphasised the challenges being faced by van operators in their transition to zero emission solutions. The association has also outlined the support required to enable the transition and ensure Net Zero targets can be met.
Commenting on the announcement, Gerry Keaney, BVRLA Chief Executive, said:
“Van fleets are struggling to make the zero-emission transition and the 2030 Phase Out target for internal combustion engine vehicles is at serious risk. Fleet-friendly public charging infrastructure is scarce and operators are struggling to find electric vehicles that can match their diesel counterparts when it comes to cost of ownership, payload or range.
“The Government is listening and today’s Plug-in Van Grant extension will be welcomed by the largest fleet operators. The Grant is a vital tool in bringing more electric LCVs to UK roads, but it is not a silver bullet.
“The Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate that comes into force next year will encourage manufacturers to produce more affordable and capable electric vans. In the meantime, we need to see a huge effort in rolling out a more affordable, reliable and accessible van fleet-friendly charging infrastructure. We need a new Electric Van Plan.
“The BVRLA continues to campaign on this topic and is in regular contact with OZEV and other bodies to share the concerns of van operators and drivers. Our ongoing research projects are quantifying these challenges and giving tangible solutions that we are working to implement.”
The BVRLA's latest work in this space includes the Fleet Charging Guide and Fleet Friendly Charging Index.
*On Thursday 4 May, OZEV confirmed that the limit of PIVG orders per end user has been increased from 1,000 units to 1,500 per financial year. The limit was implemented in December 2021 “to ensure best value for money for the taxpayer, as well as ensuring budgets were protected and distributed as fairly as possible.”
The extension is effective immediately and until further notice. It is in response to market conditions and OZEV is keeping the grant under continual review.
