VW: Rising fuel prices mean van drivers are turning to EVs

Research from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has found that van drivers could cut fuel bills by up to 87% if they switched to an electric vehicle.

In a survey of more than 1,000 UK van drivers, over half (58%) cite the difference between the fuel prices and the cost of charging an electric van, as a primary reason for making the switch.

The average UK diesel price has risen from 142p-145p per litre in late 2025 to about 183.49p per litre by September 2026.

According to Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ research, the average van driver travels 13,190 miles each year, and in a diesel van this would cost them about £2,770 per year in fuel.

However, if that same driver switched to an electric van, charged at home or overnight in a depot, this would fall by 87% to £369.24 per year – a saving of £2,400.70 per year.

Also, 66% of van drivers surveyed think EVs are suitable for their business and 61% plan to purchase an electric van in the next 12 months.

The results come from a OnePoll survey of 1,000 UK van drivers, conducted in December 2025, covering the 2025 calendar year, commissioned by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.

John Ricardo-Neto, Head of Product Planning at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, said: “We know drivers are really feeling the pinch as the cost of living continues to rise, and this is all too apparent when van drivers fill up at the pumps.

“Fuel costs have gone up by 30% over the last year and this is making electric vans an even more attractive choice.”