The rise in the number of diesel vans in the UK, by over a million in less than ten years, presents a significant challenge amidst efforts to transition to electric alternatives.
- Despite a sevenfold increase in electric vans since 2018, adoption rates lag behind some European countries.
- Carbon emissions from vans have surged by 62% since 1990, contrasting with decreases from cars and taxis.
- The Zero Emission Vehicle mandate aims for 10% of vans to be zero-emission by 2024, rising to 70% by 2030.
- Measures including scrappage schemes and infrastructure plans are suggested to aid the transition.
Recent data from Transport & Environment indicates that the proliferation of diesel vans on UK roads, with an increase of one million vehicles in under a decade, signifies a significant hurdle in the shift towards electric vans. This increase persists despite concerted efforts by both the industry and government to promote electric alternatives.
From 2014 to 2023, the overwhelming majority of new vans were diesel-powered. This surge is responsible for a 62% rise in carbon emissions from vans since 1990, which stands in stark contrast to the 19% reduction in emissions from private cars and taxis recorded over the same period. This trend raises environmental concerns given the current climate goals.
Although the number of battery electric vans in the UK has increased more than sevenfold since 2018, the adoption rate remains sluggish compared to countries like France, Germany, and the Netherlands. The Climate Change Committee has expressed concerns over the slow adoption of electric vans and the rising CO2 emissions from newly manufactured vans.
In response, the UK’s Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, implemented from January 2024, mandates that 10% of new van sales be zero-emission by 2024, with a target of 70% by 2030. The report underscores the pivotal role of corporate fleets, which represent 58% of all UK vans but account for 76% of the vehicle mileage, urging these fleets to spearhead the transition.
The report warmly acknowledges the significant growth in the electric van sector over recent years and anticipates accelerated progress with the enforcement of the ZEV mandate. Suggested measures to further this transition include clean air initiatives such as congestion charges and ultra-low emission zones, scrappage schemes for old diesel vans, and enhanced grant schemes for small businesses investing in plug-in vans.
A robust strategy for developing charging infrastructure, essential to support the electrification of both vans and heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), is also advised. Moreover, the exploration of zero-emission logistics zones is recommended to hasten the shift towards electric delivery vans and cargo bikes within urban environments.
The increase in diesel vans, despite efforts towards electrification, underscores the need for reinforced strategies to achieve sustainable transport goals.
