Motus Rentals

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Electric Van Hire in the UK: Is It Right for Your Business?

By Motus Rentals Team · 2025-01-27 · 6 min read

Electric vans are increasingly popular for business users. But are they ready for day-to-day commercial hire? We give you the honest answer.

Electric Vans in 2025 — The State of Play

Electric vans have come a long way in the last three years. Models like the Vauxhall Vivaro-e, Ford E-Transit and Mercedes eSprinter are now mainstream options — and more and more businesses are asking whether they're suitable for commercial hire.

Here's our honest assessment.

The Pros of Electric Van Hire

Lower Running Costs

Electricity is significantly cheaper per mile than diesel. For urban deliveries or regular local routes, an electric van can save 40–60% on fuel costs.

Zero Emissions Zone Compliance

If your business operates in or around London's Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) or Clean Air Zones in other UK cities, an electric van avoids daily charges (currently up to £12.50/day in London).

Quieter Operation

Electric vans are significantly quieter — a real advantage for early morning deliveries in residential areas.

Lower Tax (BIK)

For company vehicle users, Benefit in Kind (BIK) tax on zero-emission vans is considerably lower than diesel equivalents.

The Honest Cons

Range Anxiety

Most electric vans offer 100–150 miles of real-world range. For urban delivery work, that's fine. For tradespeople covering 200+ miles per day in rural areas, it may not be enough.

Charging Infrastructure

While improving, the UK charging network outside major cities remains patchy. Overnight charging at your depot or home is essential.

Payload and Space

Some electric vans have slightly reduced payload capacity compared to diesel equivalents due to battery weight. Check the specs carefully.

Is It Right for Your Hire?

Electric van hire works well for:

  • Urban deliveries within 80–100 miles per day
  • ULEZ-affected routes
  • Businesses wanting to reduce carbon footprint
  • Short-term promotional campaigns

Stick with diesel if:

  • You're covering 150+ miles per day
  • You're working in rural areas with limited charging
  • You need maximum payload

Coming Soon to Motus Rentals

We're expanding our fleet to include electric options at our Milton Keynes and Northampton branches in 2025. Interested? Register your interest by calling 0333 054 0441.

[See our current fleet →](/fleet)