Government Grants become available for Electric Vans
Thursday 19 January 2012 Back to Blog
With the introduction of the Renault Kangoo ZE, a commercial van powered by electricity rather than diesel, now could be a good time to look into the possibility of taking at least part of the fleet down the electric route.
Not only are fuel savings considerable, the government has introduced a Plug-in Van Grant which will see a cost saving of over £3000 on a new purchase of low emission and electric vehicles such as Renault's critically acclaimed Renault Kangoo ZE.
Norman Baker, transport minister said: "Now it's time for van buyers to get their chance to go electric. This is great news for businesses given the lower running costs of these vehicles - fleet buyers tell us that this is one of the most important factors influencing their decisions on what to buy."
The grant was also welcomed by Paul Everitt, of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) who said: "We will reap significant industrial and environmental benefits from establishing an early and flourishing ultra-low carbon vehicle market, attracting high value investment in R&D, innovation and automotive manufacturing."
To be eligible for the grant a van must emit less than 75kg/km CO2, and be capable of running for a minimum of 60 miles before needing a recharge, and have a minimum top speed of 50 mph.
It should also meet the European Type Approval standards.
With electric vehicles combating the rise in fuel costs, the new grant will undoubtedly be welcome by the entire fleet industry.