Stellantis, a global automotive giant, is leading the charge in the UK’s transition to electric vehicles (EVs), particularly in the commercial sector. According to the latest registration figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), Stellantis has emerged as the best-selling electric van manufacturer in the UK for 2024, further cementing its dominance in the market. With its brands Vauxhall and Peugeot claiming the top two spots in electric light commercial vehicle (e-LCV) sales, Stellantis is proving to be a pivotal player in the shift towards sustainable transport.
Stellantis has sold 4,444 electric vans in the UK so far this year, a figure that dwarfs the sales of its nearest competitor by a factor of three. This commanding lead has translated into a remarkable market share of 44% in the e-LCV segment. Vauxhall, one of Stellantis' flagship brands, is the UK’s best-selling electric van brand, with Peugeot closely following in second place. This success is not just confined to the electric sector; Stellantis also holds a significant 29.61% share of the overall van market in the UK, having registered 53,509 vans in 2024 alone.
Lee Titchner, Director of Stellantis ProOne UK, highlighted the company's strategy: “Our commitment to leading the electrification of Britain’s van fleets is evident in our e-LCV range, with every brand offering a fully electric version of each van in its line-up. This has made Stellantis the electric van market leader, as demonstrated by Vauxhall and Peugeot continuously topping the sales charts this year.”
The New Citroën Berlingo Van, another offering from the Stellantis stable, has also made waves by becoming the UK’s best-selling small van in 2024. Vauxhall's broader success is underscored by its position as the third best-selling brand in the overall LCV market.
The Push for Electrification and Its Wider Impact
Stellantis’ dominance in the electric van market comes at a time when the UK is making significant strides towards reducing carbon emissions from road transport. The transition to electric vans is a key component of this strategy, as light commercial vehicles (LCVs) have been a notable contributor to air pollution. In urban areas, where delivery vans are a common sight, diesel-powered LCVs have been responsible for a significant share of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and particulate matter emissions. According to a report by the UK Department for Transport, LCVs account for around 17% of the UK's total CO2 emissions from road transport, with diesel vans being the primary culprits.
The environmental benefits of shifting to electric vans are clear. By replacing diesel vans with e-LCVs, there is potential for substantial reductions in both CO2 and NO2 emissions, particularly in urban centres where air quality is a growing concern. London, for instance, has implemented stringent measures like the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), which imposes charges on older, more polluting vehicles, including diesel vans, that do not meet the latest emissions standards. Similar schemes are being considered or implemented in other UK cities, further incentivising the adoption of electric vehicles.
The Future of Commercial Transport in the UK
Stellantis’ success in the UK market reflects a broader trend towards electrification in the commercial vehicle sector. As the government continues to push for a ban on new petrol and diesel vehicle sales by 2030, the role of companies like Stellantis in providing viable electric alternatives becomes increasingly crucial. The company’s strategy of offering a fully electric version of each van in its line-up aligns with this national objective and positions Stellantis as a key player in the future of UK transport.
The rise in electric van sales is also being driven by the business community's growing recognition of the long-term cost savings associated with EVs. Lower running costs, exemptions from congestion charges, and government grants are making electric vans an attractive proposition for fleet operators. Additionally, the increasing availability of charging infrastructure across the UK is helping to alleviate concerns about the practicality of switching to electric vehicles.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
Despite the progress, there are still challenges to be addressed in the wider adoption of electric vans. The initial purchase price of electric vans remains higher than that of their diesel counterparts, although this gap is narrowing as battery technology advances and economies of scale improve. Moreover, the range of e-LCVs, although improving, may still pose a limitation for some operators, particularly those involved in long-distance or rural deliveries.
However, the momentum is undoubtedly in favour of electrification. With the UK government committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, and the continued expansion of low-emission zones, the demand for electric vans is expected to rise significantly. Companies like Stellantis, which have already established a strong presence in the market, are well-positioned to capitalise on this trend.
Stellantis’ leadership in the UK electric van market is not just a commercial success; it is a reflection of the broader changes taking place in the transport sector. As the UK accelerates its efforts to reduce transport emissions, the role of electric vehicles, particularly in the commercial sector, will become increasingly important. Stellantis, with its strong portfolio of electric vans and commitment to innovation, is set to remain at the forefront of this transformation, driving the shift towards a cleaner, more sustainable future for UK transport.
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