Changes to the way 4.25t electric vans are regulated came into force on 1st June, marking further steps to the viability of EVs in commercial fleets.

Find out more from our friends at the BVRLA:

The changes remove a number of barriers that have previously affected the operation of heavier electric vans, including amendments to testing and drivers’ hours requirements. The Department for Transport (DfT) has also provided further clarification on several areas that members have raised.

For vehicles already in operation, the DfT has confirmed that any 4.25 tonne van which has completed a heavy vehicle test in its first year will move to the standard Class 7 MOT regime and will not require a further heavy vehicle test in year two. Its next test will be due three years from registration.

It should also be noted that the changes apply in Great Britain only and do not currently extend to Northern Ireland. In addition, the removal of drivers’ hours requirements means tachographs are no longer needed to record driving time for affected vehicles, although operators may continue to use them if they wish. The minimum tyre tread depth requirement will also increase from 1.0mm to 1.6mm, aligning with other vehicles undergoing a Class 7 MOT.

Ogilvie customers can contact their area manager to find out more about electrifying their commercial fleet.

For the latest list of light commercial electric vans, visit MiNextEV.