The EV transition is leaving vans behind

What LCV drivers need to consider before switching to an EV

Electric cars are becoming increasingly common but when it comes to vans and pickups, known as Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs), the transition isn’t happening at the same pace. With over 5 million LCVs on UK roads, just 2% are electric, with approximately 1 in 10 new market registrations in 2025 being electric vans.

Ryan Long, Head of LCV at Zenith, the UK’s leading independent leasing, fleet management and vehicle outsourcing business, explains how the EV transition is leaving vans behind – and what drivers need to consider before making the switch.

“Many everyday van drivers who have one or two vehicles, are becoming increasingly concerned about the transition to electric, which is currently scheduled for 2035, and the hesitation and uncertainty to switch to eLCVs means the demand for electric vans remains slow,” explains Ryan.

LCV options and vehicle availability

“There’s still a disconnect between how quickly the technology is improving and people’s perception of eLCVs,” Ryan explains. “Until LCV drivers feel confident that product capability, operational performance and costs are comparable to their diesel or petrol vans, the transition will continue to lag.”

“Electric options have expanded rapidly in recent years, with many new models now available on the market, and more in development. Today’s electric vans come with advanced technology and safety features such as emergency braking and lane-keeping assist, designed to make life easier when on the road. Some models can even power tools directly from the van’s battery, for example, Ford’s E-Transit allows drivers to run tools and equipment without the need for a separate generator.”

LCV charging challenges and range anxiety

“Charging an eLCV isn’t difficult, but it is different,” shares Ryan. “Van drivers are used to a five-minute fill-up before hitting the road again. Charging takes longer, and the experience needs to be as frictionless as possible to get people on board.”

“The capabilities of e-vans are still a concern for many drivers, particularly around range and charging speeds. Improved battery technology and affordable, fit-for-purpose charging infrastructure are essential to reducing range anxiety.”

“Recent examples show what’s becoming possible. In September, the Kia PV5 set a Guinness World Record for range, travelling 430 miles on a single charge while carrying its maximum payload. For many businesses, a van like this can handle its daily operations easily and shows what the future of eLCVs could look like.”

Government support

“Despite progress in the availability of eLCVs, cost remains a major blocker,” Ryan adds. “While running costs, such as charging, is typically less when compared to petrol or diesel equivalents, the upfront price of many electric vans is often still higher. That’s why increased fiscal support with grants to make new and used EV vans affordable is essential if we want adoption to accelerate.”

“The UK Government has extended the Plug-in Van and Truck Grants until at least April 2027, which is a subsidy designed to reduce the upfront cost of buying eligible electric vans by offering a discount at the point of purchase,” shares Ryan. “This, alongside the extended 2035 deadline, provides reassurance in the short term, however, longer-term clarity is still lacking.”

“These deadlines mean drivers now have more time to test the waters as the technology continues to evolve but it shouldn’t be seen as a reason to delay,” warns Ryan. “The drivers who start planning now will be the ones who benefit. Waiting until the last-minute risks higher costs and ending up with a van that doesn’t quite suit the job.”

What this means for drivers

“Electrification isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision,” explains Ryan. “What works for one person may be completely unsuitable for another. The key is taking manageable, realistic steps. Jumping in too quickly can be as disruptive as putting things off until the final hour.”

“For van drivers thinking about the switch, it starts with understanding their own working day,” Ryan adds. “Ask yourself three simple questions: Do you drive less than 180 miles a day? Do you have the capability to charge from home? Is your load usually around 700–800kg or less? If the answer to these is yes, an eLCV could be a realistic option.”

“The clearer drivers are on how they actually use their van day to day, the easier it becomes to spot where an electric van could fit in with minimal disruption and help accelerate your transition.”