Calling on government

Last week Miles Durrant, Head of Environment & Climate Strategy, attended the launch of the Zero Emission Van Plan to highlight where government action is needed to support the transition to electric vans.

Miles said: “Royal Mail has the largest electric van fleet in the UK but we are calling for the continued support of government to help us deploy even more and reach our 100% zero-emissions in the final mile by 2035 target. That’s why we are supporting the #VanPlan asking for improved grants, charging infrastructure suitable for vans and legislative changes”.

The launch took place in the Houses of Parliament and saw representatives from a coalition, brought together by the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA), talking to MPs about the sector and where they can bring positive change. MPs from the top four parties joined, to pledge their support for the Van Plan. Attendees also included Transport Secretary Mark Harper, the Chair of the Transport Select Committee, and four members of the shadow cabinet.

BVRLA Chief Executive, Gerry Keaney said: “The number of vans on our roads grow in number every year and account for a major portion of the miles driven up and down the country. They are used nationwide across every industry, from engineering and construction to logistics and emergency services. Vans are an essential form of transport and a mobile workspace for 3.4 million drivers. If the UK is to meet its road decarbonisation targets, zero-emission vans must take centre stage”.

Our transition to electric vans supports ‘Steps to Zero’ our strategy to reach Net-Zero emissions by 2040.

#stepstozero