A report by Ford Pro has revealed that fleets could save up to £11,500 a year by switching to electric vans.
The “Economics of Commercial Van Usage Across Europe 2024” report, which surveyed 1000 businesses across Europe, found that the cost savings were the result of cheaper fuelling options and reduced maintenance costs.
The report highlights that small and medium-sized businesses could benefit financially from switching to electric vans, with the ongoing savings from lower running costs being greater than the initial expense of installing the necessary infrastructure. Ford Pro have estimated that running costs are 40% lower for E-Transit models than equivalent ICE vehicles.
General manager at Ford Pro Europe, Hans Schep, said: "The European economy is built on small businesses, and their adoption of electric vans is a critical next step to electrifying Europe’s roads. Some small businesses have already made a successful start to that journey and Ford Pro is ensuring that we have the electric vans and services to support them."
Ford Pro have created a tool to help customers electrify their fleets. So far, the “E-Switch Assist Tool” has helped 50,000 customers determine which vehicles in their fleet can be easily switched to an electric model.
Willy Le Gouellec, manager at France Alliance 56, worked with Ford Pro to electrify his diesel van fleet. He said: “Once drivers come back, it’s easy for them to recharge the vans. Within 10 seconds they’re out of the cab, at the charge point and plugging the van in. It couldn’t be simpler. The software is easy to use for me, too – I can see each vehicle and how much range it has left. We’re seeing a major advantage.”
