Industry Insights - February 2026

Fleet industry highlights

As we move further into 2026, fleet operators are navigating a rapidly evolving environment, shaped by new charging regulations, tightening ZEV mandates, and important updates for both van and goods vehicle operations. Below is a summary of the latest developments which happened in February, and what they mean for you and your fleet.

Charging infrastructure

Reliability rules are raising the bar

Charging infrastructure is entering a new era of consistency and performance, as the UK now requires rapid public charging networks to maintain at least 99% uptime – a standard that only a small proportion of networks are currently achieving.

Real time data is becoming mandatory across charge point operators, covering pricing, availability, and location accuracy, helping drivers plan with more confidence. New signage rules will also restrict official motorway and A-road wayfinding sites offering toilets, hot food, and two hours of free parking, meaning some existing charge points may lose official visibility despite remaining operational.

These changes signal a shift towards predictability and transparency, supporting fleets that depend on reliable charging to manage downtime, and keep operations running smoothly.

Electric vans: BVRLA’s Van Plan highlights the next phase of adoption

The BVRLA has recently updated its Zero Emission Van Plan, with early 2026 data highlighting policy progression. However, real world e-van uptake still trails what’s needed to meet ZEV targets. Plug-in Van Grant extensions, reduced regulatory barriers, and depot charging support have made a difference, but adoption still remains below the trajectory required to meet the 70% ZEV target by 2030.

The plan points to three priority areas for unlocking progress: public charging designed with vans in mind, fairer alignment between public and private charging costs, and strengthened support for the used van market.