Stalling electric van adoption and continued diesel reliance are jeopardising the UK’s net zero goals, Bedeo has warned.

Bedeo wants the Government to embrace schemes to retrofit existing vans with electric powertrains

The vehicle electrification specialist pointed to SMMT data on new van registrations, which show the UK achieved just a 5.7% share for battery electric vans (BEVs) in 2024 instead of the 10% target under the ZEV mandate. And while BEVs took an 8.3% share in March, up from 5.5% a year ago, that’s still half of the 16% mandated for 2025.

Bedeo also spotlighted data from the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), which shows that 90.5% of all vans in Europe still run on diesel, with the UK having an even higher penetration of 94%.

The firm said the data proves current policies are failing to drive change – and is calling on policymakers to act now.

It’s urging the Government to open up the ability to retrofit existing vans with electric powertrains in a move deemed crucial for progress.

With 57% of UK vans purchased new and the remaining fleet continuing to rely on diesel, Bedeo said the lack of incentives for retrofitting was “a major missed opportunity”.

Retrofitting can cost up to 50% less than purchasing a new large battery-electric van, prevents unnecessary vehicle scrappage and cuts emissions immediately.

France has already embraced retrofitting with government-backed incentives, proving that it is a viable and scalable option.

Osman Boyner, founder and CEO of BEDEO, said: “Van fleet operators need real options – not just the choice between new large electric vans or nothing. Retrofitting extends the lifespan of existing large vans, keeps businesses moving, and drastically reduces emissions without breaking the bank. Not to mention that it [retrofitting] does all this without impacting payload, which we know is a real problem for managers of large van fleets.”