Seven Electric Van Myths and Misconceptions
Thinking about making the switch to an electric van, but still have some reservations? There’s a good chance you've heard some of the many electric vehicle myths going round!
We're here to distinguish fact from fiction and dispel the most common electric van misconceptions. Read on to learn more.
Myth 1: Electric vans can't travel far enough
The range of an electric van varies based on the chosen make and model. These days, you can realistically expect a range of between 100 - 200 miles from a single full charge.
According to a recent Mercedes-Benz study, the average commercial vehicle in Europe travels less than 62 miles a day. Hence, the majority of electric vans should meet the needs of most businesses.
Additionally, there are a few things you can do to optimise your van's range:
- Utilise regenerative braking: Recharge your battery as you slow down by anticipating the road ahead and easing off the brakes.
- Minimise weight: Avoid unnecessary items in your van, as carrying heavier loads consumes more energy.
- Maintain tyre pressure: Ensure optimal tyre pressure to reduce excessive rolling resistance.
Before committing to an electric van, research its range to ensure it aligns with your specific requirements. Contact our specialist team for further advice and guidance.
Myth 2: There aren’t enough public charge points available
Currently, there are over 53,000 public charge points across the UK, and this number is continually rising. This figure doesn’t include the many charge points installed at homes or workplaces – another convenient way to charge your van. Some government grants are available for charge point installations. Check the government website for the most up to date information.
Most new electric vans come fitted with navigation systems that can direct you to your nearest public charge point while you are on the move. Smartphone apps like Zap Map are also available to assist, displaying the availability of a charge point before you arrive.
Myth 3: The grid can’t support an increase in electric vehicle charging
The shift to electric vehicles isn't going to happen overnight. It's a gradual process, allowing the National Grid time to plan for an increase in demand.
Our household appliances, like washing machines, have become more energy-efficient over time. As these devices improve in efficiency, their demand on the grid decreases, freeing up capacity.
The National Grid is also working to connect more renewable energy sources to supply cleaner electricity. The growth of offshore wind farms means that, eventually, wind power could meet the demand for electrifying transport.
Rest assured, if you switch to an electric van, there will be enough power available through the grid to charge it.
Myth 4: EV batteries will go to landfill once they’re finished
Electric van batteries can be recycled or repurposed once they have completed their life cycle in a van. The lithium-ion technology in mobile phones is not too dissimilar from that of an electric vehicle battery, so it’s not an entirely new process.
Specialist processing centres can extract up to 98% of battery materials for recycling. As technology advances, this percentage is likely to increase further.
Certain companies can remove the battery from the van and repurpose it for home or commercial use. An example of this is using batteries to store electricity generated from solar panels.
It's also predicted that EV batteries will outlive the vans they are installed in. By the time these batteries need to be dealt with, there are likely to be many more advanced recycling processes in place.
Myth 5: EVs are too expensive
It’s true that a new electric van will typically have a higher upfront price tag than its petrol or diesel equivalent. This is because electric vehicles incorporate a wealth of new technology. However, these initial costs are expected to decrease as EVs become more mainstream, with increasing volumes.
Despite the current higher purchase cost, electric vehicles are, on average, cheaper to run. You don't have to pay road tax or pay to enter Low and Zero Emission Zones. Plus, there are fewer moving parts under the bonnet of EVs. This leads to lower maintenance costs compared to traditional vans, thanks to reduced wear and tear on key components.
To make driving your new electric van more affordable, we offer a range of flexible finance options. Choose from Hire Purchase, Contract Hire, or Van Fleet Leasing, depending on your requirements.
If you have any queries about van finance, our expert team is available to help.
Myth 6: Electric vans still produce lots of emissions
Electric vans emit zero tailpipe emissions on the road, unlike petrol and diesel vans.
There are still carbon dioxide emissions involved in the process of charging an electric vehicle. However, these are significantly lower than those associated with the use of petrol or diesel models.
The energy used to charge electric vehicles is also becoming cleaner. Many public charge points already utilise renewable sources. As the country continues to decarbonise, reliance on non-renewable energy sources will decrease.
Myth 7: An electric van will take too long to charge
Rapid chargers can add as much as 80% charge in as little as 30 minutes. Although this is longer than the time it takes to fill up with petrol or diesel, you can use this time to catch up on other work tasks or simply take a break!
If you charge your electric van overnight, you won't need to worry about charging time eating into your working day. Plug your van in once you finish work, and when you come back to it in the morning, it will be fully charged and ready to go.
We hope this article has helped you understand a little more about some of the most common electric vehicle myths.
Considering the switch to an electric van? We offer a wide range of models in small, medium, and large sizes, with various body styles to suit your business needs.
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