Vans to be replaced by ‘a wave’ of electric bikes and micro vehicles says DfT
According to the Department for Transport (DfT), the traditional white van could be replaced by ‘a wave’ of electric bikes and micro vehicles around UK cities in the near future.
The Government have announced plans to “transform last-mile deliveries” which could mean fewer white vans on UK roads as a result.
The traditional diesel-powered white delivery van can be seen more and more on UK roads today following a massive increase in online shopping – in 2016, van traffic increased by 4.7%.
There are now around four million vans on the roads and rather than these continuing to deliver goods in the city, the DfT anticipates businesses in the future will turn to electric cargo bikes, vans and micro vehicles to deliver around towns and cities.
Could it be the end of the white van in UK towns and cities?
The DfT says this would need “major changes to the way goods are currently distributed”, as currently parcels are shipped from big warehouses based out-of-town which wouldn’t suit smaller electric vehicles.
They also recognise the fact that e-cargo bikes can’t carry more than 125kg at a time, plus “some complexity” remains concerning insurance and licencing stipulations for micro vehicles and e-vans.
The DfT have issued a call for evidence from industry, asking how electric-powered alternatives to the traditional white van could possibly help the Government to meet its air quality targets.
“We are on the cusp of an exciting and profound change in how people, goods and services move around the country which is set to be driven by extraordinary innovation,” said Transport Minister Jesse Norman following the launch of the call for evidence.
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