Tag: electric van insurance

Let’s get some electric over here

Posted on by News Desk

Pardon me? An all electric van? Who would’ve thought! Yet, it is exactly what Ford has come up with to replace Britain’s most popular and bestselling vehicle in the UK (yes folks, the beloved Ford Transit Van). Obviously, a lot of effort has gone into improving the EV (electric vehicle) market but as we are all aware, it had to start somewhere (one small step for cars, one giant leap for vans). The noisy old transits will be a thing of the past as the newer, electric versions replace the older models because manufacturers must keep up with the need to improve on air quality and vehicle emissions. They just don’t stop (thankfully) trying to improve on this. Great stuff.

So, just what have Ford been up to?

Well, they will be looking to push four new commercial vans into the market by 2024 although they are realistic enough to understand that not everyone is in a position to switch to electric motors, even though running costs are considerably lower than diesel.  However, the E-Transit, as it is known, has a 196 mile capacity which should comfortably get the driver from A to B and then on to C – Charging point. Considering there are now more than 42 000 charge point connectors throughout the UK in over 15 000 locations, an increase of around 35% since April last year, the chances of being caught without power are very slim indeed. A point to bear in mind though is that some vans don’t cover quite as many miles; it does depend on battery size.

What else has changed?

You’ll no doubt be relieved to know the answer is – not much has changed to the design of the Transit Van. Some things are just best left alone. So from the outside, it looks like a Transit Van. Under the bonnet and the interior though, you’ll notice a lot of differences. It also will come as no surprise to find that the competition have been doing their homework too and Fiat, Renault, Citroen, Peugeot and Vauxhall have all got their very own electric vans. Plenty of choice if you are looking to replace or buy new. Insurance costs will vary so you need to do your homework if you are looking at investing in a new van (or indeed renewing your insurance). That is, of course, why you are here, right?! Excellent choice, so get cracking and see how much you could save with us on cheap van insurance deals. Get started by filling out our 3-minute form. Yes, really, just 3 minutes is all it will take! What are you waiting for?

Thank You, Ford, And Thank You, Turkey

Posted on by News Desk

Two Things To Thank Ford And Turkey For Today

First, Ford Otosan announced they will produce the latest versions of Ford Transit vans.

This includes fully electric vans as well.

We all know the future is green.

In light of this, many automotive companies are pledging to become fully electric within the next 15 years.

Specifically, Ford aims to be completely green by 2030.

Furthermore, they currently lead the commercial market in Europe.

In the UK, they’ve topped the van market for an incredible 56 years.

So, this is a big deal.

We anticipate success in selling these Transit vans to delivery and courier companies.

They want to offset carbon emissions and improve their environmental impact.

But Wait, There’s More!

Have you heard of Dagenham Engine Plant?

This British company, owned by Ford, plays a crucial role.

It will manufacture diesel engines for the new Transit vans.

Not the electric ones, of course.

In the midst of Brexit uncertainty, this news is welcomed.

It will help ensure the safety of 2,000 jobs at the plant.

It’s a good deal.

The hardworking staff at Ford’s Dagenham branch send diesel engines to Turkey.

In turn, Ford Otosan equips these engines to the Transit vans.

Consequently, you can expect around 30% of these vans to be exported back to Britain.

Moreover, keep in mind that a substantial 85% of Ford engines are shipped from Britain to over 15 countries across six continents.

Ultimately, this trade is valued at an impressive £2.5 billion annually.

Thank you, Ford.

Thank you, Turkey.

This trade deal could yield even more benefits.

Despite electric pledges, this ensures UK workers’ jobs are safe for now.

As long as diesel and hybrid cars remain on the market, they can feel secure.

Whichever van you choose in the future—electric, hybrid, or combustion—we’ve got you covered.

You’ll find the cheapest van insurance quotes around.

 

British Gas Vows To Electrify With New Vauxhall Vivaro E Vans

Posted on by News Desk

Are electric vans the future…

With potential fuel tax hikes, van and delivery drivers may face tough times ahead.

As it stands, fuel costs are already rising quickly.

Furthermore, an additional 3p per litre could add £1 billion to the UK Treasury.

But for van drivers, this means an extra £250 a year on fuel.

Reports say that after a 9-year freeze on fuel tax, Chancellor Rishi Sunak is considering lifting it.

The aim?

To help pay off lockdown costs.

But at what cost for delivery drivers?

Rising Fuel Costs – What’s At Stake?

For van drivers, these hikes don’t just impact the bottom line.

Each added expense eats into profits, especially for small businesses and independent drivers.

The increase, while seemingly small, compounds over hundreds of fill-ups.

It’s a relentless drain on resources.

So, what options are there?

Could Electric Vans Be The Future Of Britain’s Fleets?

With these rising fuel prices, the future of Britain’s vans could very well go green.

In fact, more motor companies are now pledging to produce only electric vehicles by 2030.

But here’s the real question:

Could this shift not only cut costs but also benefit the environment?

Electric vans, while an upfront investment, can lead to lower fuel costs and reduced maintenance over time.

As traditional fuel costs soar, the cost-benefit of going electric looks more attractive.

British Gas certainly thinks so.

British Gas Takes A Bold Step Toward Electric Vans

In fact, British Gas is taking major steps toward a greener fleet.

Recently, they made the biggest electric vehicle order in the UK.

They’ve ordered 1,000 of Vauxhall’s new, all-electric Vivaro-e vans.

This is just the beginning.

Once available, they plan to add more electric vans to their fleet.

Electric vans can help companies cut down on emissions and lead by example.

British Gas, a significant employer of van drivers, is setting the standard.

The New Vauxhall Vivaro-e: A Game-Changer For British Gas

And they’re not stopping there.

The Vauxhall Combo-e, launching this summer, is also 100% electric.

It’s quickly emerging as a strong contender in the small van market.

Moreover, British Gas, owned by Centrica, has ambitious environmental goals.

Specifically, they’re aiming to transition their entire workforce to electric vehicles by 2030.

This move goes beyond compliance—it’s about future-proofing their operations for sustainability.

Preparing For an Electric Fleet By 2030

How will they make it work?

British Gas has plans to provide electric vans to employees who volunteer for the switch.

Additionally, they’ll prioritise areas with high emissions or places where van replacements are needed most.

This targeted strategy ensures that their electric fleet makes a meaningful environmental impact.

What started as an idea—the switch to electric vehicles—is now in full motion, with real changes underway.

Installing Charging Stations For A Greener Future

Worried about charging stations?

Don’t be.

British Gas is installing home chargers and training engineers in electric vehicle use.

This proactive approach means they’re prepared for a seamless transition.

Their engineers won’t be scrambling for charging points or dealing with long downtimes.

With infrastructure in place, the goal of a fully electric fleet is more achievable.

British Gas Commitment to “Net-Zero” Targets

British Gas’s commitment to achieving “net-zero” targets is truly setting a new standard.

Their efforts focus on reducing van emissions while improving local air quality.

But they’re not stopping at promises—they’re taking action.

Lowering van emissions is key to shrinking their daily carbon footprint.

Over 4 Million Deliveries: Supporting Communities In Need

Since the pandemic began, British Gas engineers have delivered over 4 million meals to those in need.

These deliveries highlight the crucial role that van drivers play in supporting local communities.

Their dedication goes beyond just work; it’s a lifeline for many.

This commitment highlights the importance of protecting these essential drivers for many households.

Thinking About Electric Vans? We’ve Got You Covered

So, is it time to think about an electric van?

Perhaps you already own one.

Rising fuel costs and environmental goals could make electric vehicles the new norm.

Whether you’re exploring electric options or already on board, the right insurance is key.

Having the right coverage can make all the difference when making the switch.

Either way, we’re here to help with affordable electric van insurance.

We’ve got you covered—because the future of vans might just be electric.

White Van Man Goes Green

Posted on by News Desk

We have said it before and we will say it again – you bunch never cease to surprise us.

News this week is that the typical white van man of all the social stereotypes is seemingly a thing of the past.

Replaced by a newer, greener van man (or woman) of the future.

It seems that a huge 91% of you believe that we should all be as environmentally friendly as possible.

Two-thirds of you support government initiatives for fewer vehicle emissions on the roads.

A huge 84% of you think companies should be running environmentally-friendly vehicles.

And 35% of you are considering an electric van when the time comes to upgrade your motor. 

The survey, commissioned by Fiat, to launch its new electric van the E-Ducato,

also found that many of you are not as beloved of the beer and fry-up’s diet as stereotypes may suggest.

In fact, one in five van drivers are either vegetarian or vegan,

and most prefer a cereal bar or bagel to bacon and eggs to get you going in the morning. 

You’re also a sensitive bunch too, with two-thirds of you claiming to be offended that other motorists consider van drivers to be aggressive on the road.

The majority claim to take pride in their vans, keeping them clean and tidy at all times.

And are often to be found foot tapping along to the gentle sounds of Radio 2’s greatest hits, rather than blasting out beats whilst cutting up other road users.

Whether you’re a devotee or diesel, a die-hard petrolhead or an electric eco-warrior, you all deserve the recognition that you deserve for keeping us going through lockdown.

But you also deserve the easiest way to renew your van insurance, whatever type of vehicle you drive.

And that’s why we are here for you – just a few moments using our free quote tool can deliver the best van insurance deals to your inbox, so you can get back to your spirulina smoothie.

Every Little Helps?

Posted on by News Desk

We hate to be harbingers of doom in a gloomy November, with a cold snap on the horizon for all of us, but more bad news this week for many van drivers, thanks to the PM, Boris Johnson, who has announced that he is bringing forward plans to see Britain go all electric with vehicles from 2030.

While this is a blow to motorists, some of the hardest hit maybe you, the humble van drivers of the UK. While electric cars cost a packet, (and many government critics are saying the move to electric vehicles will prevent the poorest people of the UK from being able to afford a car), the case is worse for van drivers, with the cost of a new electric van coming in at around £20k for the most basic models. 

Not to mention, of course, that you have to find somewhere to charge the thing, which is bad news if you live in a flat or somewhere with no off-street parking. (As if worrying about van security isn’t bad enough). And if you’re a delivery driver, there’s the added stress of worrying about electric automated drop-off vans, drones and robots coming to take your jobs. 

While many big businesses with van fleets appear to be in favour of the move, they are of course, failing to consider, you, the little guys, who depend on the fuel efficiency of diesel or the reliability of a petrol van to get you from A to B without needing to stop off and charge up a vehicle you possibly can’t even afford. 

As always, it seems that the little guys are going to be the hardest hit. While we can’t do much more than voice our concern and suggest that the government needs to consider implementing substantial subsidies to help van drivers of the UK make the switch to electric vehicles, we can, as always, ensure you get the best deals on your van insurance. It isn’t much, but it’s something. And right now, as a famous supermarket once said, ‘every little helps.

Time for an Electric Van?

Posted on by News Desk

It seems the world of vans is heading into an all-electric future. This week, delivery giant Amazon unveiled their new custom electric delivery vans which they are rolling out on a large scale through the next few years, with plans to have 100,000 on the road by 2030. 

The van was designed in part with input from Amazon delivery drivers, and features in built Alexa, state of the art traffic sensors, hands-free, real-time navigation, an ergonomically designed driver’s seat, improved access to packages, thanks to a new interior layout, and 360-degree cameras around the vehicle. The company developed the vans as part of a wider green initiative to be carbon neutral by 2040. 

Meanwhile, Kier group, who are responsible for many of the motorway and major road repairs in the UK have also just added electric vehicles to their fleet, in the form of electric taxi vans that are capable of carrying two Euro sized pallets with a payload of up to 830kg. 

These taxi vans will deliver supplies to roadwork sites up and down the country and are currently being tested around the UK. Again, these form part of a bigger goal towards carbon neutrality for the Kier Group. 

The good news is that the drive for electric vehicles by these companies is seeing electric technology being integrated into many commercial vehicles rather quickly. This means that prices are starting to become realistic, the technology more reliable and the savings from owning an electric van are becoming something worth considering for many van drivers. Maybe next time you are due a van upgrade, it will be worth taking a look.

Royal Mail Have 290 Of These “Strange” Vans

Posted on by News Desk

You look out the window and see the Royal Mail van pull up. Out jumps a postie in shorts, but something doesn’t quite seem right.

“That van looks and sounds a bit strange,” you say to yourself.

You go out the front door for a closer look, but still can’t put your finger on what “is different.”

“Hey Postie. Come here,” you shout, as the faithful postie runs around posting letters like a schoolboy in shorts.

“Hello sir, what can I help you with today?” says the postie.

“That van…What…is it…that…makes…it…different?” You ask, slightly puzzled.

“Why sir, the van you are referring to is…

An Electric Van!!” answers the postie.

“Ah it was one of those electric gizmos, is it? Flash in the pan if you ask me,” you say before turning around to walk back in the house.

“Just wait until they replace me with a robot,” the postie answers, before continuing with his round.

Do you know what though? This isn’t just a flash in the pan oh faithful readers of the CVI blog. Electric vans are here to stay and you will be seeing more and more electric Royal Mail vans over the coming years, oh dear readers.

That’s right. The Royal Mail have just taken delivery of 190 brand spanking new electric vans. All sparkling and with that new van smell inside.

This adds to the 100 electric vans they already have, giving them a grand total of 290 electric Royal Mail vans. And that is just the tip of the iceberg.

Pretty soon all Royal Mail Vans will be electric. You will see them cruising about the roads of our nation and pulling up outside your house.

And just like the postie in shorts predicted…it will soon be robots jumping out of the back of these electric vans and walking confidently towards your front door.

Knock Knock.

You Answer The Door.

“John Connor?” says the robot

“Yes,” you reply.

“I have a parcel for you,” the robot says while handing you the parcel and then doing a 180 and heading back to the self driving electric Royal Mail van.

“Thank you Mr Robot,” You shout as the robot walks off…”And I like your shorts!” You go on to add.

This oh faithful readers of the CVI blog is the future, you can be sure of that. Where everything is different, but still familiar.

Just like the CVI web site itself. We will always be familiar, but at some point we will have to change, just like the world around us.

99 Problems, But An Ice Cream Van Isn’t One

Posted on by News Desk

A few years ago we reported how ice cream vans were nearly “extinct.” That once familiar sound…now silent.

There is still a small army of ice cream van owners though, and many come here to CVI for their ice cream van insurance.

Our 3 minute form is just like the “99” of the van insurance industry. It’s simple, to the point, and you can finish it in 3 minutes.

Despite the ice cream van looking to be on its last round, that might not be the case. Not according to our inside expert in the ice cream industry.

We will refer to him as “Mr Whippy,” and what he told us shocked and stunned all of our staff here at CVI HQ.

Make no mistake about it: the ice cream industry still has 99 problems, but an ice cream van isn’t one…

What are we even talking about? Well, according to “Mr Whippy” there is a new ice cream van on the scene and if everything goes to plan then they will soon be on our roads, in force.

These brand new ice cream vans are powered by electricity…completely!

Not only are they electric vans but the ice cream making machines are also battery operated. Everything is electric, running all the way through the van like a bolt of lightning.

“I’ve got the power,” ice cream van owners will be saying around this nation of ours.

“That is one scoop of AC, and one scoop of DC,” they will go on to add.

So how could the electric ice cream van lead to a resurgence of the good old days of ice cream eating.

For one, they may start to get encouragement from local councils, who would welcome a “green machine” on the roads and ready to serve ice creams. They might even give government grants to encourage people to start an ice cream business.

It would be a novelty. That’s for sure. And it may even kick start a resurgence in the ice cream van. Who knows for sure?

What I do know is that ice cream van owners…

It doesn’t matter if you are petrol or electric…

AC or DC…

Work full time or part time…

You can get very cheap ice cream van insurance right here at the Nations Favourite.

Oh, and just to mention that our expert insider “Mr Whippy” is soon going to publish a book on how to start and run a profitable ice cream van business. It will be called “99 Tips to become an Ice Cream Millionaire.” Keep a look out for that one.

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