Volkswagen survey reveals EV insights
As the government’s electric vehicle infrastructure strategy advances, businesses across the UK are looking at how and when to electrify, with more than two-thirds (67 per cent) of UK van drivers now stating that an EV would suit their business requirements, according to a recent poll commissioned by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.
The OnePoll survey of 1,000 UK van drivers, conducted in December 2023, found that many business owners want to reduce their on-road emissions, with almost one-third (29 per cent) of van drivers in the UK also citing the expansion of ULEZ-zones as a key reason to make the switch to electric.
But despite the rising acknowledgement of the benefits of transitioning to sustainable mobility, several barriers to adoption persist, with range anxiety and charging accessibility still cited as concerns.
To support businesses navigating this transition, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles offers a range of electric (EV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) solutions.
Volkswagen’s first factory-built all-electric van, the ID. Buzz Cargo, is built using sustainable components and materials, and customers can choose between two trim levels, both of which offer advanced connectivity and driver assistance systems: Commerce and Commerce Plus.
Both trims are fitted with a 77kWh (net capacity) lithium-ion battery and electric motor, producing a power output of 204PS and delivering an all-electric range of up to 254 miles, according to testing under WLTP technical procedures. For times when longer journeys are necessary, the ID. Buzz Cargo is capable of charging from five per cent to 80 per cent in just 30 minutes when plugged in to a DC quick-charging station.
The ID. Buzz Cargo can be easily converted into a bespoke vehicle to cater for specific customer needs, says the manufacturer. Examples of this include its partnership with premium household appliance manufacturer, Miele, which became one of the first fleet customers to receive an individualised ID. Buzz Cargo (pictured).
In line with Miele’s customer service team’s requirements, the tailored vehicle features bespoke shelving systems and an integrated folding workstation.
From large fleet conversion requests, to bespoke requirements for sole traders, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ nationwide Van Centres are available to support all customer enquiries, from design to delivery. The company has a wide range of off-the-shelf conversions available to purchase, as part of its ‘Engineered To Go’ conversion programme.
The manufacturer also offers a choice of low-emission plug-in hybrid options, with the new Volkswagen Multivan. Customers include London’s largest private hire and taxi firm, Addison Lee, which ordered 600 hybrid Multivans earlier this year.
