Is it worth buying a small electric van?

Electric vehicles are rapidly gaining ground in the business market, and more and more business owners are asking themselves: is buying an electric van really worth it? The answer depends on your driving habits, your charging options and your business needs. In this article, we answer the most frequently asked questions so that you can make an informed choice.

Whether you’re a self-employed driver who travels around town every day, or a fleet manager considering leasing electric commercial vehicles, choosing an electric small van requires a clear understanding of the pros and cons. We’ll take you through everything you need to know, step by step.

What exactly is an electric small van?

An electric small van is a compact commercial vehicle with a fully electric powertrain, designed for the transport of goods or materials. These vehicles typically have a payload capacity of 500 to 1,000 kilograms and a load space comparable to that of traditional small petrol or diesel vans.

Well-known examples include the Renault Kangoo E-Tech, the Volkswagen ID. Buzz Cargo and the Ford E-Transit Custom. They are designed for urban and regional use, with the electric powertrain delivering lower energy costs and reduced emissions. From the outside, the vehicles look almost identical to their petrol or diesel counterparts, but underneath the floor they contain a battery pack that powers the motor.

Difference compared to a double-cab commercial van

A company bus with double cabin has an extra row of seats behind the driver and, in addition to the load area, can accommodate several passengers. This type of vehicle is popular in the construction industry and with service companies that transport both people and materials. Electric versions with a double cab are also available, but are less widely available than the standard van variant. If you regularly carry several employees, it is worth knowing which type best suits your situation.

What are the advantages of a small electric van?

An electric small van offers lower running costs, quiet operation and access to low-emission zones where diesel vehicles are increasingly being banned. For business owners who drive in urban areas on a daily basis, these are tangible benefits that have a direct impact on their business operations.

The benefits at a glance:

Lower energy costs: Electricity works out cheaper per kilometre than diesel or petrol, especially if you charge at home or at work.
Less maintenance: Electric motors do not require oil changes, have no exhaust system and have fewer parts subject to wear and tear.
Access to environmental zones: More and more Dutch cities are introducing emission standards for vehicles. Driving an electric vehicle gives you unrestricted access.
Tax benefits: Electric commercial vehicles are eligible for a lower additional tax liability, MIA/Vamil tax relief and, in some cases, grants through the SEBA scheme.
A smooth, comfortable ride: No engine vibration or exhaust noise, which is a bonus for early deliveries in residential areas.

What’s more, an electric commercial vehicle fits in well with a sustainable corporate image. Customers and clients are increasingly paying attention to their suppliers’ environmental performance. An electric van shows that, as a business owner, you’re thinking ahead.

What are the disadvantages and limitations of an electric van?

The main drawbacks of a small electric van are the higher purchase price, the limited range on a single charge and the reliance on charging infrastructure. For business owners who make long daily journeys or do not have access to a fixed charging point, these factors can pose a significant obstacle.

Specific restrictions to bear in mind:

Higher purchase price: An electric van usually costs more than a comparable diesel model. It takes several years of use to recoup this difference.
Loading time: A full charge takes longer than filling up with petrol. Even with fast charging, it can easily take 30 to 60 minutes.
Charging infrastructure: Not everyone has a charging point at home or on their business premises. Public charging points aren’t always available when you need them.
Weight loss due to the battery: The battery pack is quite heavy, which means that the net payload may be slightly lower than in a diesel version.
Fewer second-hand items available: The market for used electric vans is smaller, which limits your choice if you want to buy a small van.

These drawbacks do not affect everyone to the same extent. Those who mainly drive in the city and can charge their vehicles overnight will hardly notice the limitations. But for a painter who drives 200 kilometres a day and does not have a fixed charging point, the switch is currently even less practical.

What is the range of a small electric van?

In practice, most small electric vans have a range of 150 to 300 kilometres on a full charge, depending on the model, the load and driving conditions. In winter or when driving at high speeds on the motorway, the actual range is lower than the manufacturer’s specification.

The range varies depending on the model:

Entry-level models with a smaller battery: approximately 150 to 200 kilometres
Mid-range models such as the Renault Kangoo E-Tech: around 250 kilometres
Larger models with a more powerful battery pack: up to 350 kilometres

What factors affect range in practice?

Several factors mean that the actual range differs from the official figure. Driving speed is the biggest factor: at motorway speeds of 120 km/h, the range decreases significantly. Other factors include the outside temperature, the weight of the load and the use of air conditioning or heating.

For city commuters and regional drivers, a range of 200 kilometres is more than enough in most cases. However, anyone who covers long distances on a daily basis would be well advised to calculate their expected daily mileage realistically before buying an electric van.

Is a small electric van a good business investment?

For many business owners, an electric small van is certainly an attractive option for business use, particularly if you drive in urban areas on a daily basis, have access to charging infrastructure and can benefit from tax incentives. The total cost of ownership over the vehicle’s lifespan may be lower than that of a diesel model.

From a business perspective, there are several reasons to give this serious consideration:

Additional tax liability: The tax liability for electric company cars is lower than for fossil-fuel-powered models, which is advantageous if the car is also used for private purposes.
MIA and Vamil: Electric commercial vehicles are included on the Environmental List, which means that as a business owner you can claim additional depreciation or tax relief.
Electric commercial vehicle leasing: Leasing companies are increasingly offering attractive leasing packages for electric vans, including charging solutions and servicing.
Future-proofing: With the expected tightening of emission standards in cities, investing in electric vehicles is now a sensible long-term move.

Ultimately, the business case comes down to your specific driving profile. An entrepreneur who makes 80 per cent of their journeys within a 100-kilometre radius has a stronger business case than someone who drives long distances every day. Calculate your expected savings on fuel and maintenance and compare them with the price difference when buying or leasing.

What should you look out for when buying a small electric van?

When buying a small electric van, you should consider the battery pack and its remaining capacity, charging options at home and on the road, the load capacity and cargo space, and the availability of warranty and service. These are the factors that will largely determine whether a vehicle is suitable for your work.

Check your mental health

When buying a second-hand electric van, battery health is a key consideration. A battery that has undergone many charge cycles will have less capacity than a new one. Always ask for a battery report or have a diagnostic check carried out before proceeding with the purchase. For new vehicles, manufacturers usually offer an 8-year or 160,000-kilometre warranty on the battery pack.

Charging options and charging speed

Check which type of charger the vehicle supports. Some models only charge via alternating current (AC), whilst others also support fast charging via direct current (DC). Fast charging is useful if you want to top up during the day. Also check whether the vehicle has an on-board charger with sufficient power to charge at home via a wallbox.

Load space and load capacity

Compare the load space and net payload of the electric model with those of the diesel version. Due to the weight of the battery, the payload may be slightly lower. For most applications, this makes little difference, but if you regularly carry heavy loads, this is something to check.

Warranty and after-sales support

It is best to choose a vehicle that comes with a manufacturer’s warranty or an extended warranty package from the dealer. This gives you peace of mind regarding the vehicle’s technical condition and protects you from unexpected repair costs. Having a good local service and maintenance provider is also practical, especially if you need the van on a daily basis.

How we can help you choose the right small electric van

We understand that choosing an electric commercial vehicle isn’t always easy. That’s why we at Van den Hurk Commercial Vehicles are here to offer you practical, personalised support, from the initial consultation right through to final delivery. Here’s what we can do for you:

Wide range of electric vans, both new and used, including double-cab models
Personalised advice based on your driving profile, charging options and business needs
Flexible options for electric commercial vehicle leasing, purchase or bespoke financing
Over 60 years’ experience in the Helmond and North Brabant region, with a strong local reputation
Stock alert service via our website, so you’re the first to know about new stock

Would you like to know which small electric van is best suited to your business? Please get in touch or pop into our showroom in Helmond. We’d be happy to discuss your needs and help you make a choice that works for your business both now and in the future.