New research from Farizon reveals 71% of UK tradespeople are considering an electric van for their next work vehicle, beating general public demand.
Over seven in 10 UK tradespeople are considering an electric van as their next work vehicle, according to new research commissioned by commercial vehicle brand Farizon. The survey revealed that 71% of trade professionals are looking to transition to electric light commercial vehicles (eLCVs), significantly outstripping the 55% figure reported for the general motoring public.
The figures indicate a rapid shift in attitude among electricians, plumbers, joiners, and general builders. Increasing running costs for internal combustion engines, alongside the expansion of Clean Air Zones and Low Emission Zones across major UK urban centres, are compelling trade sole traders and fleet operators to re-evaluate their transport options.
As vehicle manufacturers expand their battery-electric commercial ranges, tradespeople are paying closer attention to operational range, payload capacities, and charging infrastructure compatibility alongside traditional buying factors like load space and interior durability.
What does this mean for a UK tradesperson or DIYer actually buying this kit — does it change what they should pay, buy, or watch out for?
Switching to an eLCV requires buyers to look beyond the initial purchase price or monthly lease rate. While list prices for new electric vans remain higher than traditional diesel equivalents, lower daily running costs and exemption from urban congestion charges can offset the difference for busy urban contractors. Buyers must carefully check payload weight limits, as heavy battery packs can reduce net carrying capacity for dense building materials, heavy power tools, and roof-rack ladders. Tradespeople should also factor in the cost of installing a dedicated home wallbox charger to ensure overnight charging, rather than relying solely on pricier public rapid-charging networks.
Trades planning their next vehicle change should track real-world winter range estimates and payload allowances across competing eLCV models before committing to a lease or purchase contract.
Reported by Professional Electrician — original article
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