Can I get a grant for a plug-in electric van?

Electric and plug-in hybrid vans are now eligible for a government grant, which will be available to both private and business buyers across the UK.  The scheme will be similar to the plug-in car grant, but with a lower percentage discount from the list price (20%) and a higher maximum grant (£8,000).

The grant is available for vans with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 3.5 tonnes or less and the performance criteria include a minimum range of 60 miles for fully electric vans – 10 miles for plug-in hybrids – and a minimum top speed of 50mph. As is the case with the car scheme, minimum warranty terms apply and pre-registration conversions are eligible.  A list of eligible vehicles - including several which have successfully completed our Eco-Rallies - is available on the DfT website.

The financial case for electric vans improves significantly with this news and opens up many opportunities for businesses to integrate these vans into their fleets. Where vans are used inside the London Congestion Charging zone, the 100% discount for electric plug-in and hybrid vehicles is worth up to £2,250 a year.  Moreover, vans often have fixed duty cycles and return to base regularly where they can easily recharge, and therefore offer the potential to switch from conventional power to a hybrid or electric van.