A new survey has found that an increasing number of van drivers are looking at making the switch to an electric model as environmental concerns become more apparent.
The survey by Fiat Professional calculated that 35 per cent of van drivers are now considering choosing a battery-powered option, as more options come to market.
Another interesting find in the research was that 91 per cent think it’s important to be as environmentally-friendly as possible, with the switch to an electric commercial being an easy way to do this.
Other findings in the survey included two thirds supporting the government’s plan to reduce vehicle emissions, while 84 per cent believed that companies had an obligation to have cleaner vehicles on their fleet.
Richard Chamberlain, of Fiat Professional, said: “It’s a bit of a tired myth now that van drivers are tailgaters who take little pride in their vehicle or the environment.
“Caring about the planet is an important part of everyone’s lives, and while the growth in popularity of electric cars has been well publicised, it seems many van drivers are proud of their office and are also looking to make the switch to zero emission motoring.
“Electric vans offer a lot of benefits for delivery companies and tradespeople. Not only are they environmentally friendly, but they are also exempt from the congestion charge and ULEZ and are available with up to a whopping £8,000 government grant.”
The findings follow on from a previous survey of consumers that revealed 53 per cent of UK adults wanted to know how environmentally friendly delivery vehicles are.
Fiat’s study comes at a time when the brand is gearing up to launch its first electric commercial vehicle – a battery-powered version of its large Ducato van, which boasts a 192-mile range. Most leading van manufacturers now offer an electric option, too, including Vauxhall, Mercedes and Citroen, with Ford introducing a plug-in hybrid version of its Transit Custom.
