Three out of four UK van drivers now believe a fully electric van would meet the needs of their business, according to new research from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. That figure is up from 67% in 2023 and comes as electric light commercial vehicle registrations grew by more than 50% year-on-year to June 2025.

The survey of 1,000 UK van drivers found that cost-effectiveness was the most significant factor encouraging businesses to consider going electric, with 62% saying EVs are now cheaper to run than petrol or diesel models. Other key drivers included sustainability (52%) and the wider choice of electric vans available (37%).

That said, barriers remain. Charging time (49%) and electric range (43%) were the two biggest concerns cited by those yet to switch. Even so, the majority of businesses without an electric van (69%) expect to add one to their fleet during 2025.

Volkswagen has also partnered with OVO Energy on its Charge Anytime tariff, aimed at lowering running costs for drivers charging at home with electricity rates from 7p per kWh. Customers can also get up to 5,000 free miles in credit with their new electric van when joining the tariff.

“It’s encouraging to see van drivers embracing the transition to electric, with the majority now recognising the ways in which EVs can support their day-to-day businesses,” said Craig Cavanagh, national fleet manager at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. “We continue to enhance and expand our line-up of all-electric vehicles, including the new eTransporter and entry-level ID Buzz variants, as well as continuously improving our range of partnerships as we support customers on this electrification journey.”

Volkswagen’s electric van line-up currently includes the new eTransporter and ID Buzz Cargo, with ranges of up to 277 miles.

Phil Huff
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