Subsequently, Electric vans offer multiple opportunities for small businesses to minimise costs from the moment they drive off the forecourt, notably through the reduced cost of charging compared with refuelling petrol and diesel vehicles. With Ford Pro Charging software, customers can also schedule charging during off-peak hours to further reduce their energy spend.
Electric vans are also mechanically simpler than diesel vehicles, which reduces the need for maintenance. Ford Pro estimates that service maintenance and repair cost is 40 per cent lower for E-Transit than for equivalent diesel-powered models.
Overall, small businesses comprise 99 per cent of firms in the EU. According to the CEBR electrification report, firms in France stand to benefit the most, where going electric could save up to €19,000 per van. This saving comes from factors including a comparatively low price difference for electric- and fuel-powered vans once governments grants are added, as well as lower depreciation for electric vans. This saving is also supported by France showing a relatively large divergence between electricity and fuel prices, which increases the potential to save money with an electric van by recharging cheaply.
Firms in Spain can save up to €16,000, up to €14,000 in the UK, up to €12,000 in Italy, and up to €11,000 in Germany. Across the five markets, the average saving is €14,000. Further savings may also be accrued from exemption from payments required after entering the increasing number of low-emission zones.
