Fleet electric van feedback needed to make strong case for change

Fleets are being urged to help shape the rules regarding the use of 4.25 tonne electric vans before a Government consultation closes.

Launched in December, findings from the consultation – ‘Zero emission vans: regulatory flexibility’ – will help define regulations related to annual vehicle testing, drivers’ hours and tachographs, and speed limiter devices for electric vans.

In order to make the most compelling case for change, the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) has created a form for fleets to provide feedback along with any data and real-world examples.

The BVRLA is specifically seeking fleet operator views relating to why they need the strict ‘truck’ regulations to be removed for 4.25t electric vans and they should instead be treated the same as light commercial vehicles (LCVs) up to 3.5 tonnes. 

The trade association launched the Zero Emission Van Plan last year, with the Association of Fleet Professionals (AFP), Logistics UK, Recharge UK, the EV Café and Fleet News, to call on the Government to provide greater fiscal support, improve charging infrastructure and remove these regulatory barriers.

Catherine Bowen, BVRLA head of decarbonisation and future mobility, said: “The Government consultation is a clear indication that the asks from the Zero Emission Van Plan are under serious consideration. 

“The current regulatory set up for larger electric vans is not working and we have outlined clear changes that will support adoption. 

“Those changes are firmly on the table. It is now up to the sector to provide the views and evidence that make the case even stronger and impossible for the Government to overlook.”

The main proposals in the consultation, which closes on March 3, are to: 

•    Transfer the annual testing of zero emission goods vehicles (ZEGVs), with a GVW of 3.5t to 4.25t, from the heavy vehicle testing system to the MOT network, with the tests used for 3t to 3.5t goods vehicles put in place 

•    Amend annual testing schedules for ZEGVs, with a MAM of 3.5t to 4.25t, so their first test is after three years from first registration (and annually thereafter).

•    Remove ZEGVs with a MAM of 3.5t to 4.25t (and when used with a trailer in a combination with a MAM up to 7t) from the requirements for tachograph use, the assimilated drivers’ hours rules (Regulation (EC) 561/2006, as it has effect in the UK) and specific road transport working time rules when used within Great Britain (GB).

Find the BVRLA feedback form here to help the association make the most compelling case for change.