Logistics UK has welcomed a government consultation on changes to rules around 4.25t electric vans, saying it could lead to increased take-up.
Under a derogation, electric vans weighing up to 4.25t are classed as LCVs, for which the usual weight limit is 3.5t, to account for the extra weight of batteries. However, this does not prevent 4.25t electric vans being classed as HGVs for purposes such as MOT testing and tachograph regulations – a situation the consultation is proposing to rectify.
Logistics UK head of infrastructure and planning policy Jonathan Walker said: “The current situation, where 4.25t electric vans are treated as HGVs in terms of MOT and driver hours requirements, is nonsensical and is limiting the adoption of cleaner electric vehicles.
“The vehicles are the same size and used to perform the same tasks as traditional vans: it is only the extra weight from the batteries which moves them into a heavier weight category.
“From an operational point of view, the vehicles are the same and aligning regulations will make it easier to integrate electric vehicles into fleets. Removing the requirement for tachographs and drivers’ hours restrictions that are intended for HGVs means there would be no disruption to shift patterns.
“In addition, annual roadworthiness checks could be carried out in the comprehensive MOT network instead of the heavy vehicle testing system.”
Walker said that Logistics UK had long been campaigning for full regulatory alignment between 4.25t electric vans and 3.5t diesel vans, and that the consultation was a clear indication that the government was listening to the sector’s concerns.
He added: “Alongside its main proposals, we continue to press the government to remove the requirement for five hours additional training to drive an electric van, and lift the prohibition on the towing of a trailer.
“Vans are the workhorses of the UK economy and all barriers to their use need to be removed so drivers can use a zero-emission van just as easily as a petrol or diesel equivalent.”
