The Rise of Electric Vans: A Lucrative Opportunity for Franchise Holders

Are you a franchise holder looking to increase your revenue streams? If so, electric vans could be the next big money spinner for you. With huge improvements in range, continued grant support, and substantial price reductions, the market for electric vans is now open to owner-operators and small-to-medium enterprise users.

In April 2024, Stellantis’s Pro One operation launched 12 new electric vans across various brands, offering models in three different body sizes with a range of over 200 miles. The prices have been slashed across the plug-in line-up, making them more affordable for customers after the government’s plug-in van grant.

The rise in popularity of electric vehicles and a shift towards leasing are changing dealership revenue streams. While EVs may have a negative impact on aftersales, selling higher-value electric vans can provide great opportunities for dealerships.

The evolution of larger electric van models, such as the new Vauxhall Movano Electric, is expected to make a significant impact in the market. With a WLTP-rated range of 261 miles and a lower price tag compared to its predecessor, the Movano Electric offers customers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option.

Brad Miller, head of LCV product & pricing for Stellantis Pro One UK, emphasized the importance of electrification in the brand’s strategy, stating that electric vans are improving rapidly and becoming more appealing to customers. With the upcoming release of a plug-in version of the Ford Transit Custom and other electric models from Volkswagen and Isuzu, the market for electric vans is set to expand further.

If you’re interested in learning more about the latest developments in the automotive industry, check out the current edition of Car Dealer for news, views, reviews, and much more. Electric vans could be the game-changer you’ve been waiting for in your franchise business.