VAN BUYERS will be able to receive up to £8k off the cost of a new electric van through a new government grant scheme.
The plug-in van grant, available to both business and private buyers, cuts the cost of a new van by 20% – to a limit of £8k.
The first seven vans eligible for the grant have now been announced (http://www.dft.gov.uk/news/press-releases/dft-press-20120221/). They include the Renault Kangoo ZE, Faam Jolly 2000 and Mia-electric Mia U.
Renault has calculated that over the course of four years, those driving the van around London could save over £7,000 due to fuel efficiencies and no Congestion Charges, plus a further £3,000 thanks to the grant.
Transport Secretary Justine Greening said a small electric van will typically cost £100 less in fuel for every thousand miles driven compared to a diesel equivalent.
Business Minister Mark Prisk added: Vans are essential to the smooth running of so many businesses and contribute enormously to the UK economy. An upfront purchase grant, when combined with lower running costs and tax benefits, can make switching to an ultra low carbon van an attractive choice for those businesses.
Businesses that run electric vans can benefit from reduced refuelling costs, are exempt from the van benefit charge, attract capital allowance concessions, and also receive a 100% discount for the congestion charge in the London.
