The image of a dirty white diesel van, complete with a surly driver behind the wheel, could be a thing of the past.
New research by Fiat Professional reveals that many drivers find the ‘white van man’ stereotype to be inaccurate.
In fact, many are contemplating a move to an electric vehicle, while greasy fry-ups have been ditched for vegetarian diets.
Arise, ‘green van man’
Fiat surveyed 500 van drivers, gaining feedback ahead of launching the all-electric E-Ducato van later this year.
A substantial 91 percent stated they believed being environmentally friendly was important. Two thirds support government plans to reduce overall vehicles emissions in the UK.
More than one third (35 percent) said they were considering switching to an electric model for their next van. An overwhelming proportion (84 percent) of those asked thought companies should ensure they have an eco-friendly fleet of vehicles.
Clean van, clean driving, clean living
Other cliches ready to be lost in transit include the notion that van drivers are aggressive. Almost two-thirds of those surveyed were offended by the idea that their driving was poor.
More than three quarters (77 percent) said they took care of their van, ensuring it is always clean and tidy. Van drivers are, apparently, just as likely to listen to Radio 2 as they are to Radio 1 on the road.
That commercial vehicle drivers all have an unhealthy diet was another tired claim, according to 66 percent of those questioned. A fifth stated they are either vegetarian or vegan.
Consumers are watching closely
Fiat Professional’s electric E-Ducato is set to arrive in the UK later in 2021, with a range of up to 192 miles. Such a distance is more than four times the average daily distance traveled by UK van drivers.
A previous study by Fiat found that three quarters of consumers want delivery companies to use zero-emissions vehicles. Over half (52 percent) took an interest in the carbon footprint of UK logistics operators.
Fiat Professional’s Richard Chamberlain said: “It’s a bit of a tired myth now that van drivers are tailgaters who take little pride in their vehicle or the environment.
“Caring about the planet is an important part of everyone’s lives, and while the growth in popularity of electric cars has been well publicised, it seems many van drivers are proud of their office and are also looking to make the switch to zero-emission motoring.”
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