With more than three million vans on UK roads, representing nearly 10% of all vehicles registered, they play a vital role in the economy, but the report highlights plenty of room for improved efficiency.

‘Our white paper “Evolution of Van: Efficiency and Fleet Operation” was commissioned to look in detail at the current pressures on van fleet operators and help understand more about improving efficiency, such as how to utilise fleets more effectively, and how to implement simple measures to cut operating and whole life costs,’ explained Alastair Hemmings, National Fleet manager, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles UK. 

‘This means better fuel use, better maintenance, better van choice and better utilisation, while a good, franchised van dealer is increasingly important,’ he continued.

For many van fleets, fuel is the biggest single cost.  The report notes that a more effective use of telematics is one way to help well-run companies gain a lead over their less efficient competitors thanks to better data on fuel use and driver behaviour, plus the more obvious data on route planning, vehicle use, performance and maintenance. 

Fitted with highly-efficient common rail diesel engines, the versatile Volkswagen Caddy, Transporter and Crafter vans and conversions are among the most frugal on the market, offering savings on running costs across the whole range.  BlueMotion Technologies, including Start/Stop, battery regeneration and the fitment of low-rolling resistance tyres offer further savings in fuel costs and emissions on Caddy and Crafter, and will join the Transporter range soon.

With a nationwide network of Volkswagen Van Centres dedicated to supporting and optimising the efficiency of each and every van, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is committed to ensuring van owners and operators are getting the best out of their vehicles.

The white paper was written by  commercial vehicle consultant Robin Dickeson and is available to read  in full at http://www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/fleet/white-paper.