Today (25th February 2025) the government revealed £120million has been earmarked to help van drivers and businesses transition to zero emission vehicles.
Part of the Plan for Change, Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood has revealed the government will be extending the Plug-in Van Grant – a scheme that was launched in 2012. So far, the initiative has helped sell over 80,000 electric and zero emission vans.
Following the programme’s success, businesses and van drivers looking to purchase small vans (weighing around 2.5 tonnes) can apply for a grant worth up to £2,500 and up to £5,000 for larger vans (weighing around 4.25 tonnes).
Alongside providing additional funding, the government have also axed the requirement of extra training when driving an electric van, which can be heavier than their petrol or diesel counterparts despite being the same size. The decision was made to encourage more people into the sector.
Today’s funding announcement is part of over £2.3billion to help industry and consumers make a supported switch to electric vehicles (EVs) – this includes taxi drivers and bikers.
‘From van drivers and businesses to drivers with accessibility needs, bikers and cabbies, today we are making it easier, faster and cheaper for people to switch to electric vehicles,’ Greenwood said. ‘By making the transition to zero emissions a success, we’re helping to drive growth all over the UK, putting more money in people’s pockets and rebuilding Britain to deliver our Plan for Change.’
The Department for Transport have revealed £4,000 will be available to support taxi drivers when switching to zero-emission black cabs and announced the Plug-in Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Grant cap is being increased from £35,000 to £50,000. What’s more, bikers are also set to benefit from a £500 grant to help purchase an electric motorbike for another year.
It is hoped that these financial aids with continue to drive growth within the EV sector – an area that is already showing positive progress. According to government figures, over 382,000 electric cars were sold in 2024 – up a fifth on the previous year.
Photo by JUICE via UnSplash
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