Considering an electric van?
Now might be the time, as 70% of new vans sold in the UK will be required to be zero emission by 2030, rising to 100% in 2035.
Shop electric vansBenefits
You'll have a lower cost per mile when driving an electric van. Plus, you'll benefit from zero road tax until 2025.
Zero emissions means cleaner air for you and those around you, especially in busy towns and cities.
Depending on the type of van you choose, you could be eligible for new van government grants, ranging from £2,500 to £5,000.
Instead of frequent gear changes, enjoy a smooth acceleration courtesy of your EV's automatic transmission.
Electric vans are much quieter than traditional vehicles, which can have a positive impact on the health of people and wildlife.
Charging
As part of the Arnold Clark Group, Bumblebee is available to assist you with both home and workplace charging solutions. Whether you're looking to charge your van at home or provide charging infrastructure at your business for a fleet of vans, Bumblebee can explain finance options, benefits and what technology will work best for your needs.
Our dedicated educational hubs in Glasgow and Stafford aim to take the uncertainty out of switching to electric by providing in-depth, face-to-face information about electric vehicles and charging. If you have any questions or would just like more information about electric vehicles in general, book a free appointment at your nearest Innovation Centre.
Purchase an electric van or commercial vehicle through Arnold Clark to gain exclusive access to our bookable UK-wide charging network. Enjoy preferential rates and ultra-rapid charging to get you straight back to business in no time.
Learn more Shop electric
Learn everything about the world of electric from our Innovation Centre Geniuses - including charging advice, driving tips, fun facts and more. View our education videos, handy guides and latest electric news!
Find out more Shop electric vans
FAQs
The cost to charge an electric van in the UK can vary based on several factors, including the electricity tariff, the charging speed, the efficiency of the vehicle, and the charging infrastructure used. Here are some general considerations:
The cost of electricity can vary depending on your location and the tariff you are on. Domestic electricity rates are usually lower than commercial rates, so charging at home may be more cost-effective.
Some electricity tariffs offer different rates at different times of the day. 'Time of use' tariffs may allow you to charge your electric van at lower rates during off-peak hours, potentially reducing overall charging costs.
The charging speed can affect the overall cost. Fast charging at public charging stations may be more expensive than slower charging at home. However, fast charging allows for quicker top-ups when needed.
The efficiency of the electric van itself plays a role. Newer electric vans tend to be more energy-efficient, meaning they can travel more miles per kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity.
Different charging stations may have varying pricing structures. Some public charging stations offer pay-as-you-go options, while others may require a subscription or membership. Additionally, some charging stations may offer free charging, especially if they are part of a specific network or partnership.
The payload capacity of electric vans can vary depending on the specific make and model and as technology evolves, manufacturers are continuously working to improve the performance of electric vans in the following ways:
Electric vans are being more frequently purpose-built with a focus on optimising space and weight distribution to maximise payload capacity. Manufacturers are increasingly designing electric vans from scratch, taking advantage of the unique characteristics of electric drivetrains.
Ongoing advancements in electric vehicle technology, including lightweight materials, more efficient drivetrains, and improved battery technologies, are increasing the payload capacity of electric vans.
Different electric van models may have varying payload capacities. Some electric vans may focus on maximising payload capacity, while others may prioritise other features, such as range or efficiency.
Maintenance costs for electric vans are generally lower compared to traditional vans with internal combustion engines. This is primarily due to the simpler design of electric drivetrains, which have fewer moving parts and require less maintenance. Here are some factors which impact the associated costs:
Electric vans have fewer moving parts in their drivetrains compared to traditional vans with internal combustion engines. There is no complex transmission system, exhaust system, or components like spark plugs to malfunction.
Electric vans do not require oil changes. Traditional vans need regular oil changes to lubricate the engine components, which is an ongoing maintenance expense you won’t need to budget for when owning an electric van.
Electric vans often use regenerative braking systems, which can extend the life of the brake components. Regenerative braking captures and converts some of the kinetic energy during braking into electric energy, reducing wear on traditional friction brakes.
Routine maintenance for electric vans is generally simpler. While there are still components that require periodic checks and replacements (such as tyres, brake pads, and filters), the overall maintenance process is streamlined.
Electric motors are known for their reliability, and they are less prone to issues that commonly affect internal combustion engines, such as overheating and exhaust system malfunctions.
Electric van manufacturers often provide warranties for their battery packs, offering a certain level of protection against potential issues. This can help mitigate concerns about high replacement costs for batteries.
Long-term performance of electric vans is influenced by various factors and individual experiences, which will vary depending on specific make and model, driving conditions, and maintenance practices. Here are some things to consider:
Electric vans have a simpler drivetrain compared to traditional vans. With fewer moving parts, there is less wear and tear, potentially leading to improved reliability.
Electric vans do not require oil changes. Traditional vans need regular oil changes to lubricate the engine components, which is an ongoing maintenance expense you won’t need to budget for when owning an electric van.
Electric vans generally have lower maintenance requirements, reducing the likelihood of mechanical failures and improving overall reliability.
The durability of the battery pack is a critical factor in the overall reliability of electric vans. Battery technology has been improving, and manufacturers often provide warranties for the battery packs, offering peace of mind to buyers about how durable their van batteries are.
Checking reviews and feedback from owners of specific electric van models can provide valuable insights into real-world experiences of reliability and durability. Online forums, customer reviews, and industry publications can be good sources for this information.