Consultation on changing rules for electric vans
There’s hope that a government consultation on electric van regulations could encourage wider adoption by fleets.
Running until March 3, 2025, the consultation focuses on regulations for zero-emission goods vehicles (ZEGVs). It covers annual vehicle testing, drivers' hours, tachographs, and speed limiter devices. A ZEGV refers to a zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) that’s a category N vehicle—at least 4 wheels, used for carrying goods.
The goal is for drivers to operate ZEGVs as easily as their petrol or diesel counterparts, without compromising road safety. ZEVs are typically heavier than petrol and diesel vehicles due to their powertrain and batteries. Despite the extra weight, they are functionally and visually similar to conventional vans.
The consultation aims to align regulations for 4.25-tonne electric vans with those for 3.5-tonne diesel vans.
Jonathan Walker, Head of Infrastructure and Planning Policy at Logistics UK, told Fleet News:
“These vehicles are the same size and used for the same tasks as traditional vans—the only difference is the battery weight, which puts them in a heavier category. Aligning regulations will make it easier to integrate electric vehicles into fleets.”