According to a survey published today, about 57 percent of van owners are discouraged from going electric due to lack of charging points.
Data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) shows that although more than one-third of all new models come with charging capabilities, one in 20 buyers use electricity.
The adoption of the electric van is currently two years behind the car – where the ratio between electric and fuel is one to five – one-fifth of owners said it would postpone the decision for three to seven years.
“Every business has an electric van, but we need a ‘van plan’ to make zero-emission driving work for millions of people, for whom their van is their livelihood and millions more who rely on these work horses for delivery. Their daily needs, ”said Mike House, chief executive of SMMT.
The industry called on the government to play its part and help people get green, as 58 percent of respondents said they would agree to switch to electric vans if there were more charging points.
“The automotive industry is taking these new technology vehicles to showrooms – we need the government and other stakeholders to meet our commitment to get them on the road,” House added.
Believing that trucks should not rely on charging points, Asher Bennett, chief executive of electrical and hydrogen maker Tevva, has created an electric truck with a small reserve of hydrogen power to extend range extensions.
“The range extender is in the truck but not necessarily for use, it is for risk aversion. [of trucks running out of battery]”
