Zero Emission Van Plan launched at parliamentary event

A Zero Emission Van Plan has been launched at a parliamentary event, which calls for greater fiscal support, improved charging infrastructure and for the removal of regulatory barriers to enable the switch to zero-emission light commercial vehicles.

The Van Plan is headed by the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA), with the support of the Association of Fleet Professionals, Logistics UK, Recharge UK, EV Café, and Fleet News. It was launched at an event attended by MPs on 20 February.

The launch took place in the Houses of Parliament on 20 February and saw representatives from across the coalition talking to MPs about the sector and where they can bring positive change. MPs from the top four parties joined to pledge their support for the Van Plan. Attendees also included Transport Secretary Mark Harper, the Chair of the Transport Select Committee, and four members of the shadow cabinet.

The Van Plan’s three key ‘asks’ cover a range of requirements deemed essential to support continued uptake in the electric van market.

This includes increased fiscal support by extending the Plug-in Grant post 2024/2025 and by giving financial support for SMEs to purchase used BEV vans.

The report also calls for improved support for public and private charging, by using the Public Charge Point Regulations 2023 to ensure public charging works for e-vans, and by launching a new fund to support fleets upgrading their grid connection. They also want the government to produce guidance to help fleets navigate the grid connection process.

The plan also calls on the government to remove regulatory barriers on 4.25t ZEVs, saying 4.25t ZEV vans should be MOT'd as a van not an HGV and not subject to EU driver’s hours rules.

The British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) has created a poll to capture overall sentiment towards electric vans as part of its Zero Emission Van Plan initiative.

Gerry Keaney, BVRLA chief executive, said: “Vans are the backbone of our economy, providing an essential form of transport and a mobile workspace. They are growing in number every year and account for a major portion of the miles driven up and down the country. If the UK is to meet its road decarbonisation targets, zero-emission vans must take centre stage. They are a vital player in the transition and command more attention.”

^{Image shows Iain Stewart, MP.}