Seven vans to meet Plug-In Grant criteria

Van insurance customers keen to reduce the cost of running their vans and contribute to a greener future have received some welcome news, as the vans which meet the government’s Plug-In Grant criteria have been named.

The renewable energy incentive knocks 20% off the vehicles list price, which is expected to result in a surge in demand, as it is often the initial high costs of ultra-low carbon commercial vehicles which stop van insurance customers from investing.

To qualify for the grant the vehicles must emit less than 75g/km of CO2, as well as being able to travel for distances of at least 60 miles and reach a top speed which exceeds 50mph. The vehicle must also reach European safety standards.

This qualifying criteria has proved difficult for many to meet, with only seven vans currently qualifying for the incentive, which can result in up to £8,000 of a vehicle’s ticket price.

Four of the seven vehicles are currently on sale, whilst three others will be released to van insurance customers across the UK in the near future.

If you’re interested in doing your bit to contribute to a greener future, you can make a 20% saving on the following vehicles:

• Ford Transit Electric Connect
• Mercedes-Benz Vito E-CELL
• Renault Kangoo Z.E.
• Smith Electric’s Smith Edison
• Faam’s Ecomile and the Jolly 2000
• Mia-electric’s Mia U

Business minister Mark Prisk, said: “Vans are essential to the smooth running of many businesses and contribute enormously to the UK economy. An upfront purchase grant, when combined with lower running costs and tax benefits can make switching to an ultra-low carbon van an attractive choice.”

However, Prisk was less effusive when asked to comment on the number of sales he believed the grant would generate, with van insurance customers slow to switch to low-carbon and electric alternatives thus far.

If you’re considering investing in a low carbon or electric car then it is highly likely you will benefit from cheaper insurance premiums than you would receive if you bought a petrol or diesel van. Give us a try here at Van Compare and we’ll find you a fantastic deal within minutes.