The Era of Electric Vans: Shaping the Future of Fleets & Van Racking Kits

In today’s world, environmental concerns are taking center stage, and our approach to mobility is evolving. In Europe, there are ambitious plans to reduce CO2 emissions from new vehicles. The European Union aims to lower CO2 emissions by 37.5% by 2035. This commitment underscores the need to find new, more environmentally friendly solutions in transportation, and electric vans have become a crucial part of this transformation.

The Journey of Electric Vans

Electric vans are no longer just a novelty in the automotive market; they are becoming a reality. Companies that manage a fleet of delivery vehicles are starting to see the numerous benefits of transitioning to eco-friendly models. The shift to electric vans is now a priority, especially in cities that are implementing restricted traffic zones for vehicles with internal combustion engines.

Advantages of Electric Fleet Vans

The benefits of electric vans in corporate fleets are significant. First and foremost, they reduce CO2 emissions and other air pollutants. Air pollution is a critical environmental and health issue for cities, making support for electromobility vital. Electric vans produce zero tailpipe emissions, contributing to improved urban air quality.

Another advantage is the cost savings associated with electric van operation. Electric vans have lower maintenance costs than their internal combustion counterparts. They require significantly less servicing since they have fewer moving parts, reducing fleet maintenance expenses. Additionally, the financial benefits of lower electricity prices make electric vans more cost-effective to operate.

Fleets at the Heart of Cities

The increasing number of cities implementing restricted zones for vehicles with internal combustion engines is another reason electric vans are gaining popularity. Access to these areas is limited or prohibited for traditional gasoline or diesel vehicles. Electric fleet vans can operate freely in these cities, allowing businesses to efficiently deliver goods and services.

Designing Electric Van Racking: Key Features and Differences

Electric vans are the future of delivery fleets, and designing racking systems for them comes with its unique requirements. Here are several aspects to consider when comparing racking solutions for electric and traditional combustion engine vans:

Batteries and Cargo Space Dimensions:

Electric vans often have their batteries located in the floor or beneath the seats. This placement can affect available cargo space and interior height. When designing racking solutions, it’s essential to account for these extra elements in the layout to maximize cargo capacity.

Weight:

Electric van batteries are significantly heavier than conventional engines. Therefore, the racking design must consider the battery’s weight and other electrical components. Using lightweight materials like aluminum is recommended to minimize additional weight.

Charging Infrastructure:

Electric vans require access to charging stations. Your racking design should incorporate the placement of charging ports and storage for cables and chargers within the vehicle.

Safety:

Proper electrical installation safety is crucial to prevent accidental shorts or damage. When drilling holes or using screws near electrical wiring, extra precautions are needed to avoid any risks.

Maximum Range:

In longer delivery routes, every additional mile of range is critical. Minimizing the vehicle’s weight is key to achieving this. A racking system made of lightweight materials, such as aluminum, can help extend the range of the vehicle on a single charge.

At Van Care, we are committed to continuous improvement and actively seek new opportunities to reduce the weight of our racking systems. We understand the importance of adapting to the changing landscape of transportation. In the near future, we have plans to introduce fully aluminum racking systems, further minimizing the weight to an absolute minimum. These changes align with the shifting needs in the transport industry, ensuring that our solutions remain efficient and sustainable.