Only six percent of van drivers plan to drive electric within two years

Only six percent of van drivers plan to drive electric within the next two years – fearing a lack of infrastructure.

A survey of 600 adults who drive a van to work found that 48 percent of those yet to take the plunge want to stick with a fuel-powered vehicle for now – and 47 percent are unsure.

Two-thirds (65 percent) of petrol and diesel truck drivers find charging points difficult to find.

One in five (19 percent) would therefore be more likely to switch if there was an easier way to pre-plan their journey around the location of charging points.

Other assurances that non-electric drivers need include evidence that productivity will be improved (16 percent) and reduced downtime for repairs (13 percent).

Technologies that provide status updates on range, nearest charging points and required maintenance work will also be attractive (14 percent).

The study was commissioned by Ford Pro, which is urging municipalities and governments to spend more on electric vehicle infrastructure before new petrol or diesel vehicles are banned in 2035.

As part of its campaign, the car company is loaning e-transit vans to traders at Brixton’s Electric Avenue market for 2023 so they can try out electric vans for themselves.

Levi Roots, Brixton’s local and reggae reggae sauce maker, is working with the company to decarbonise its own store logistics.

He said: “As my business continues to grow, I am always looking for ways to streamline my logistics and keep my business sustainable.

“The tools that Ford can provide to businesses like mine will really help us grow as consumers become more environmentally conscious.”

The survey, conducted by OnePoll, found that 51 percent believe companies are under pressure to adopt more sustainable business practices to reduce their environmental footprint and remain commercially viable.

However, 36 percent believe a lack of infrastructure – including charging points – will negatively impact productivity, while one in three (32 percent) fear it will harm profits.

Mandy Dean, Director of Commercial Vehicle at Ford of Britain, said: “Many of these local companies have been serving customers for decades, across several generations – and probably with the support of a Transit in the background.

“It is vital that these companies continue to thrive as we collectively move towards an all-electric future – we stand ready to support them every step of the way and call on communities and governments to get behind the switch.”