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Drivers' electric van concerns revealed by Ford research
Date: Tuesday, July 5, 2022 | Author: Sean Keywood
Concerns about range, charging costs and losing time are among those held by UK van drivers about electric vehicles, according to research by Ford.
The manufacturer spoke to 500 drivers for its latest Go Electric report.
Among its findings was that drivers estimated the average range of electric vans at 67.5 miles, which Ford points out is well below the 196-mile range offered by its new E-Transit.
Other findings from the research include that 44% of drivers believe they wouldn’t be able to fit charging time into their working schedule, which Ford says may stem from a lack of charging options available, with only 20% of respondents saying there are always charging points available at work, and 52% saying they don’t have access at home. On top of this, only 42 per cent of van drivers said they knew how to charge an electric vehicle.
In addition, 71% of drivers said they were unsure how they would be reimbursed for energy costs if they charged their company van at home.
The research also found that 16% of drivers were concerned about the outright cost of electric vans, while 29% said the initial infrastructure cost of introducing electric vans would be too much of a burden for themselves or their business.
However, despite the concerns, 49% of those surveyed said electric vans would be the most common type of van on British roads within the next ten years, and 36% said they or their employer planned on switching to electric vans within the next four to six months, with 38% thinking it was a smart investment.
Ford of Britain commercial vehicle director Mandy Dean said: “Tackling the concerns of Britain's workforce is an important task in helping the nation go green and make the switch to electric.
“Understanding people’s perceptions of electric vehicles is vital to making sure we’re all on board, including within the vital commercial vehicle segment which is so important for keeping the UK’s economy growing.
“Our research report shows while there are concerns about the switch, van drivers seem willing to embark on the journey to go green and Ford Pro has the capabilities to make the switch easier.”
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