The financial pressure from record-high diesel prices is making UK van drivers consider a switch to electric power.
With diesel now at £2 per litre in certain parts of the country, and no end in sight for the international conflicts pushing up oil prices, commercial vehicle drivers are feeling the pinch.
More than half (58 percent) of van drivers surveyed by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles said the cost of diesel fuel was a leading factor in making them look at battery-powered vans instead.
Volkswagen’s own analysis suggests that diesel van drivers could potentially slash their fuel bill by 87 percent by going electric.
Major savings on fuel bills possible
Volkswagen’s figures are based on van drivers covering 13,190 miles each year – the average annual mileage for commercial vehicle users.
Using fuel prices at the start of September 2026, with diesel at 183p per litre, driving this distance would cost van users around £2,770 per year.
Charging an electric van at home or at a depot using an off-peak tariff would mean paying just 7p per kWh. The total annual bill for this would be £369.24 – a saving of 87 percent, equivalent to £2,401.
The continued upwards trajectory of diesel prices would make this disparity even more extreme today.
Growing range of electric vans
Such high fuel prices may explain why two thirds (66 percent) of van drivers surveyed think EVs are suitable for their business. And 61 percent plan to purchase an electric van during the next 12 months.
Volkswagen has recently revealed a new long-wheelbase version of its popular ID. Buzz Cargo electric van, providing extra carrying capacity.
In addition, the marque’s new e-Transporter offers 6.8-cubic metres of load space, along with a one-tonne payload and 225 miles of battery range.
John Ricardo-Neto, head of product planning at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, said: “We know drivers are really feeling the pinch as the cost of living continues to rise, and this is all too apparent when van drivers fill up at the pumps. Fuel costs have gone up by 30 percent over the last year and this is making electric vans an even more attractive choice.
“This research highlights that the savings that could be made on fuel are significant, impacting businesses’ bottom line; and this alongside lower servicing costs, a near silent powertrain and smoother driving experience.”
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