What are the eco-friendly benefits of electric commercial vehicles?
Electric commercial vehicles offer significant eco-friendly advantages over diesel vehicles. They produce no local emissions while driving, improve air quality in urban areas and reduce noise pollution. With the growing share of renewable energy in the Netherlands, their environmental impact is becoming increasingly positive. This article answers key questions about the sustainability benefits of electric commercial vehicles.
Why are electric commercial vehicles better for the environment than diesel?
Producing electric commercial vehicles no local emissions while driving, while diesel vehicles directly emit CO2, nitrogen oxides and particulates. This means electric vehicles do not emit pollutants in cities and residential areas where they drive. The environmental gains become even greater as the Netherlands uses more renewable energy for electricity generation.
The difference in CO2 emissions is significant. An average diesel commercial vehicle emits about 180 to 220 grams of CO2 per kilometre, depending on its weight and engine. Electric commercial vehicles have no direct emissions, but their overall environmental impact depends on how the electricity is generated.
In Dutch cities, electric commercial vehicles provide an immediately noticeable improvement in air quality. They do not emit nitrogen oxides that contribute to smog and respiratory problems. Nor do they produce soot particles that are harmful to public health.
As the Dutch electricity grid becomes greener with more wind and solar power, the eco-friendly benefits of electric driving increase further. You can even charge your company car with its own solar panels for a fully sustainable solution.
How much CO2 do you actually save with an electric company car?
With an electric company car, you save on average 60 to 80% CO2 emissions compared to a comparable diesel version, taking into account the Dutch energy mix. For a company driving 25,000 kilometres a year, this means a saving of about 3-4 tonnes of CO2 per vehicle per year.
The exact savings depend on several factors. A diesel company car emits 180 to 220 grams of CO2 per kilometre on average. An electric company car indirectly causes around 50 to 80 grams of CO2 per kilometre, depending on how the power is generated.
For different business types, this means concrete savings. A courier driving 40,000 kilometres a year saves around 5 to 6 tonnes of CO2 a year. An installation company with three commercial vehicles driving 20,000 kilometres each will avoid around 8 to 10 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year.
The Dutch energy mix is getting cleaner every year. In 2024, more than 40% of our electricity already came from renewable sources. This means that the CO2 savings from electric commercial vehicles is getting bigger every year, without you having to do anything yourself.
What other eco-friendly benefits do electric commercial vehicles have?
Electric commercial vehicles offer many more environmentally friendly benefits than just CO2 reduction. They produce hardly any noise, drastically reduce particulate emissions and lower dependence on fossil fuels. This makes for a healthier living environment, especially in densely populated areas.
Less noise pollution is an important benefit that is often underestimated. Electric commercial vehicles are virtually silent, contributing to a quieter living environment in residential areas. This is especially valuable for companies that need to drive early in the morning or late in the evening.
The reduction of particulate matter is significant for public health. Diesel vehicles produce soot particles that penetrate deep into the lungs and cause health problems. Electric vehicles have no exhaust and therefore produce no particulate matter while driving.
Driving electric reduces the Netherlands' dependence on imported fossil fuels. Electricity can be generated locally with wind, solar and other renewable sources. This contributes to energy independence and economic stability.
How does electric driving contribute to sustainable operations?
Electric driving strengthens your corporate image and helps achieve sustainability goals. It makes your company more attractive to environmentally conscious customers and employees and prepares you for future legislation around zero-emission zones.
Many companies can use electric commercial vehicles to achieve green certifications or improve their sustainability score. This is becoming increasingly important for tenders and cooperation with large clients that have their own climate targets.
Environmentally conscious employees appreciate employers who make sustainable choices. An electric vehicle fleet can help attract and retain talent. It shows that your company is thinking ahead and taking responsibility for the environment.
Dutch cities are increasingly introducing environmental zones where diesel vehicles are restricted or banned. With electric commercial vehicles, you can drive anywhere and be prepared for future regulations. This prevents problems and extra costs in the future.
How Van den Hurk helps with electric commercial vehicles
We help you switch to electric commercial vehicles with personal advice and flexible solutions. Our product range electric commercial vehicles offers the right solution for every type of business, from small vans to large rigids.
Our service includes:
- Advice on the best electric company car for your business activities
- Flexible leasing and financing options
- Support on practical aspects of electric driving
- Transparent pricing and personal guidance
With over 60 years of experience in commercial vehicles, we understand that switching to electric driving requires careful consideration. We take the time to understand your situation and find the best solution to suit your business needs and sustainability goals.
Want to know more about the possibilities of electric commercial vehicles for your business? Contact us for personal advice and find out how you can contribute to a cleaner environment without sacrificing functionality.
