Yesterday, the Government clarified that hybrid vehicles will continue to be sold in the UK until 2035, offering a degree of flexibility in the nation’s transition to electric vehicles (EVs). This comes amid growing concerns over the feasibility of an entirely electric vehicle fleet in the near future, particularly for sectors like logistics, where the use of vans and light commercial vehicles is critical.
While the original deadline for the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles had been set for 2030, the updated policy ensures that hybrids—vehicles which combine both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor—will still be available for purchase until 2035. This decision provides an extended timeline for businesses and individuals to transition away from traditional petrol and diesel vehicles.
This clarification has significant implications for businesses, particularly those operating large van fleets. For many companies in sectors such as delivery, construction, and logistics, vans are a crucial part of their daily operations. The gradual shift to a zero-emission fleet is seen as a necessary but challenging step in reducing the carbon footprint of these industries. However, transitioning too quickly to fully electric vans could present operational and financial obstacles.
Electric vans generally come with a higher upfront cost compared to their hybrid or diesel counterparts, despite government incentives. Many smaller businesses, particularly those with extensive vehicle requirements, have expressed concerns about the ability to absorb these costs within the originally planned timeframe. Extending the availability of hybrid vehicles until 2035 alleviates some of this pressure, allowing businesses to transition at a pace that aligns with both their financial and operational capabilities.
Peter Golding, managing director at Fleetcheck, pointed out, “It’s no secret that van fleets have been finding the process of electrification much more tough than their car counterparts. Battery electric vans bring payload, range and charging compromises that present massive operational obstacles for some.
“Against that backdrop, hybrid vans are a sensible stepping stone that will provide an extra five years to resolve those issues. It is genuinely good news. Few people in fleet could envisage how van fleets were going to switch to a battery electric only model by the end of the decade, and the new government announcement provides some breathing space.”
Hybrids offer an appealing middle ground, combining the environmental benefits of electric propulsion with the reassurance of a traditional fuel engine for longer journeys. This flexibility makes hybrids an attractive option for businesses that are hesitant to make the immediate leap to fully electric vans, especially in regions where the charging infrastructure remains underdeveloped.
The Government’s clarification on hybrid vehicle sales reflects the complex balance between environmental goals and economic realities. While the move may delay the full electrification of van fleets, it also provides businesses with the necessary time to adjust to the demands of a low-emission future. Companies operating van fleets will need to remain agile, assessing their operational needs while monitoring advancements in EV technology and charging infrastructure.
For the Government, the challenge lies in ensuring that the extended deadline for hybrids does not undermine the longer-term objective of a zero-emission transport network. Investment in charging infrastructure, continued financial support for EV purchases, and the development of innovative policies will be key to ensuring a smooth transition for all stakeholders involved.
Peter Golding added that the extra time now available should be used to look at ways in which the limitations of electric van technology could be removed.
“There are number of ways this could happen. Improved battery technology is probably the most likely, but it is also possible that, especially for larger vans, there is the time to develop a fuelling network in order to make widespread adoption of hydrogen vans viable.”
Author: Mark Salisbury, Editor, Fleetpoint