Government works to ease rules on heavier zero-emission vans

The Government has pledged to introduce legislation making it easier for fleets to operate zero-emission vans weighing between 3.5 and 4.25 tonnes, following a consultation on MOT testing, drivers’ hours, tachographs and speed-limiter requirements launched in December 2024.

The consultation, Zero emission vans: regulatory flexibility, highlighted that the current roadworthiness testing regime for heavier electric vans is a major barrier to uptake. Most respondents backed shifting these vehicles into the class 7 MOT system, with a first test at three years and annual testing thereafter. While some raised concerns about potential road-safety risks, DfT data showed no higher collision rates for heavier electric vans compared with their lighter ICE equivalents. 

The response said: "Having considered the responses provided, DfT will work to move 3.5 to 4.25t ZE vans into scope of the class 7 MOT testing system (without adding features from the HGV test into the class 7 MOT), with a first test 3 years from first registration (and then annually)."

It said that legislative change will be required to implement this and a post implementation review of the legislation would be conducted to assess its impact. This would be to assess any future evidence of whether the changes to the roadworthiness testing system lead to a deterioration in road safety, and, if so, whether the legislation should be amended or revoked.

The number of 3.5 to 4.25t ZE vans failing the class 7 MOT and roadside prohibition rates could also be monitored, to provide evidence of whether the condition of vehicles changes significantly.

Regarding changing drivers’ hours and tachographs, the government said: "Before implementing any changes to speed limiter requirements, a further targeted consultation containing specific proposals for alterations to speed limiter rules would be required."

Toby Poston, BVRLA Chief Executive said: “This is a great result for the van sector and delivers something the Zero Emission Van Plan has pushed up the agenda. Policymakers have listened to the fleet sector. We now need to see the legislation passed quickly to finally remove these restrictive regulations.
 
“This progress underlines what can be achieved when an industry comes together with a shared voice, met by Government representatives that are ready to listen. Operators of large vans are being given the chance access cleaner, greener models, no longer hamstrung by illogical operational loopholes.”