Are double cab vans more economical than two separate vehicles?

A double cabin A van is usually more economical than driving two separate vehicles, especially if you regularly need to transport staff and materials at the same time. You not only save on fuel, but also on insurance, road tax and maintenance. Whether this is the best choice for your business depends on your daily driving pattern and how often you need to perform both functions at the same time.

The question of whether it is better to drive one double cab van or two separate vehicles is relevant for many entrepreneurs. Naturally, you want to keep costs as low as possible without compromising on functionality. In this article, we look at actual fuel consumption, the total cost and when a double cab is really the most economical option.

What is the actual fuel consumption of a double cab van?

A modern double cab van consumes between 7 and 10 litres per 100 kilometres on average, depending on the engine type and load. Diesel engines are generally more economical than petrol variants, and modern Euro 6 engines perform better than older types. Actual consumption is often higher than the manufacturer's specifications, especially when driving with a heavy load or making many shorter trips in the city.

Weight plays a major role in fuel consumption. A double cab weighs more than a single cab due to the extra seats, which can increase consumption by approximately 0.5 to 1 litre per 100 kilometres. Add to that the load, and you will see that a fully loaded van requires considerably more fuel than an empty one.

Your driving behaviour also makes a difference. Accelerating smoothly, anticipating traffic and maintaining a constant speed can reduce your fuel consumption by 10 to 15 per cent. In addition, modern vans often have an eco mode that optimises engine management for more economical driving.

Electric double cabins are becoming increasingly available and offer an interesting alternative. Although the purchase price is higher, the energy costs per kilometre are much lower. For companies with predictable daily distances and charging facilities at the office, this can be an economical option.

How much does it cost to drive two separate vehicles compared to one double cab?

Driving two separate vehicles can easily cost you 30 to 40 per cent more than one double cab van. You pay double road tax, two insurance policies and twice the maintenance costs. With average use, you will incur approximately €3,000 to €5,000 in additional costs per year for the second vehicle, depending on the type and mileage.

Let's break down the costs. An average van costs around £700 to £1,000 per year in road tax. Insurance costs between £600 and £1,500 per year, depending on your coverage and no-claims bonus. Maintenance and MOT costs average £500 to £800 per year per vehicle.

Fuel costs naturally depend on your mileage, but if you drive 20,000 kilometres per year with a consumption of 8 litres per 100 kilometres, you will pay approximately £2,880 per year at a diesel price of £1.80. For two vehicles that cover the same distance, fuel costs are often higher because smaller passenger cars are less efficient at transporting materials.

Depreciation is a hidden cost that you should not forget. Two vehicles lose more value together than one double cab. A van loses on average 15 to 20 per cent of its value in the first year and then approximately 10 per cent per year. With two vehicles, you largely double this loss in value.

The total cost for two separate vehicles quickly adds up to €8,000 to €12,000 per year in fixed costs and depreciation, compared to €5,000 to €7,000 for one double cab. That difference of €3,000 to €5,000 per year adds up to a considerable amount over five years.

When is a double cab van the most economical choice for your business?

A double cab is the most economical choice when you regularly need to transport staff and materials at the same time. Think of construction companies where a team travels to project locations with tools, or installation companies where technicians need to travel with equipment. If you need this combination at least three to four days a week, the investment in a double cab more than outweighs the cost of two separate vehicles.

A double cab van is ideal for landscaping companies. Your team of two to three people can travel comfortably, while the cargo area offers enough space for mowers, tools and materials. You not only save on fuel, but also time, because you can drive to the location in a single vehicle.

Technical service providers such as electricians, plumbers and painters also benefit from this design. You can train your staff while driving, always have materials to hand and still transport everyone comfortably. The separate cab and load compartment ensure that the workplace remains clean and tools are stored safely.

When is a double cab less suitable? If you usually transport personnel and materials separately, or if your material transport is very heavy and requires a larger load space, a single cab with more load volume may be more practical. Two smaller vehicles are also more flexible for companies whose personnel often have to travel to locations separately.

Also consider your daily mileage. With very high mileage, the difference in fuel consumption between a double cab and an economical passenger car for team transport can be significant. Carefully calculate whether the extra flexibility outweighs the higher fuel costs.

How Van Den Hurk assists in selecting the most economical commercial vehicle

We are happy to help you find the most economical and cost-effective solution for your business. With over 60 years of experience in commercial vehicles, we understand exactly which double cab van best suits your daily work and budget.

Our approach is practical and tailored to your situation:

• Personal advice about fuel consumption and total costs based on your mileage and usage
• Comparison between different models and engine types, including electric alternatives
• Understanding leasing costs through a finance lease, so you know exactly where you stand
• Large stock with 400 company vehicles, including various double cabins in different price ranges
• Stock alert service which automatically informs you when a delivery van that meets your requirements arrives

Whether you opt for an economical diesel, a modern Euro 6 engine or an electric variant, we will help you decide on the best choice for your business. Visit our showroom in Helmond or contact us for a no-obligation consultation. Together, we will calculate which option is truly the most economical for your specific situation.