Plug-In Grant makes business sense for buyers
23rd March 2012
The first vans eligible for the Government’s new Plug-in Vehicle Grant have been announced – and they include the Mercedes-Benz Vito E-Cell.
Light commercial vehicle buyers will be able to receive 20% – up to £8,000 – off the price of an initial wave of seven plug-in vans.
The way vans are used and driven make them ideally suited to the switch to electric as they often have a predictable route and distance to travel each day; they make frequent stops; and many of them return to an overnight base where they can be easily recharged.
Businesses that run electric vans can also benefit from reduced refuelling costs, are exempt from the van benefit charge, attract capital allowance concessions, and receive a 100% discount on the congestion charge in London.
“The new Plug-in Van Grant makes business sense as it’s been estimated that a small electric van will typically cost £100 less in fuel for every thousand miles driven compared to a diesel equivalent,” Transport Secretary Justine Greening said.
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.