PHAM NEWS | JULY/AUGUST 2026 38 Vans & Racking


What are the best vans for plumbers?


The experts from Select Van Leasing have devised a list of the best vans for plumbers, based on factors such as running costs, internal space and payload capacity. They highlight vehicles that can cope with the demands of carrying heavy tools, pipework and fittings while still offering practical storage and efficient day- to-day use. Among the models featured, the


Ford Transit Custom is praised for its strong balance of cargo space, comfort and versatility, while the Volkswagen Transporter (pictured) is noted for its build quality and strong resale value. The Vauxhall Vivaro is also


highlighted, with some versions capable of carrying more than 1.3 tonnes and an electric variant


available for those moving away from diesel. Closely related models, including the Citroën Dispatch, Fiat Scudo, Peugeot Expert and Toyota Proace, are identified as offering near- identical layouts and capabilities, with the Toyota version standing out for its extended warranty. For those needing greater load


length, the Renault Trafic and Nissan Primastar are mentioned as strong options, while the Mercedes Vito is positioned as a more premium choice for businesses wanting a higher-end image.


The study suggests smaller


vans are better suited to domestic call-outs where parking and manoeuvrability matter most, while larger variants are more appropriate for bigger installation and refurbishment work. It also points to growing interest


in electric vans such as the Ford E-Transit Custom and Vauxhall Vivaro Electric, particularly for urban work, although range limits and charging access remain a consideration for some tradespeople. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/726/89


Citroën UK has introduced new offers across its light commercial vehicle range that bring the monthly cost of electric vans in line with diesel equivalents, making the switch to electric more accessible for SMEs and sole traders. Available on models including


the ë-Berlingo Van and ë-Dispatch through a range of finance solutions from Stellantis Financial Services, the offers remove one of the biggest barriers to


Smaller electric model aimed at urban businesses


Kia UK has added a smaller version of its PV5 Cargo electric van as it expands its commercial vehicle range for 2027, alongside updated features and revised pricing across the line-up. The new PV5 Cargo L1/H1 is designed


The high price of van downtime hits hard


UK businesses are losing an average of £1,172.20 for every day a van is off the road, according to new research commissioned by Mercedes-Benz Vans, which highlights the wider operational and human impact of vehicle downtime. The study found businesses


experienced an average of 6.5 days of disruption over the past year. The findings suggest how quickly problems spread beyond the vehicle itself, particularly in sectors such as logistics, construction, utilities and healthcare, where vans are central to daily operations. The research found that 41% of respondents said downtime creates stress for staff, while 33% reported disruption to workflow and 29% said employees are forced to work longer hours. A quarter of respondents said


they had received customer complaints linked to vehicle downtime, while the same


proportion said they missed performance targets. Nearly one in five reported losing contracts, and 17% said they had dealt with frustrated or abusive customers. For smaller firms, the impact


was described as even more immediate, with limited fleets meaning each vehicle plays a critical role in day-to-day operations. Mercedes-Benz Vans is


promoting its Van Uptime Monitor system, which links vehicles with Mercedes-Benz workshops and alerts operators to potential issues before they lead to breakdowns. Should drivers need roadside, breakdown or minor mishap support, they are covered by the 24/7, Europe- wide MobiloVan roadside assistance cover, which resolves around 82% of call outs at the roadside, helping minimise disruption. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/726/92


for businesses that mainly work in towns and cities where streets are tight and parking space is limited. Despite being 200mm shorter than the larger version, it still offers just over four cubic metres of space for tools, parcels or equipment. Kia says the smaller size should make it easier to


drive and park, while still allowing a useful payload of up to 800kg, meaning it can carry heavy loads such as trade equipment or deliveries. Two battery options are available. The standard battery offers a driving range of up to 177 miles on a


full charge, while the larger battery increases this to up to 243 miles, depending on conditions and use. The van launches with two seats, with a three-seat


version planned for early 2027. Kia has also added comfort and usability upgrades across the PV5 range, including better lower-back support for the driver, an armrest, and changes inside the cabin to reduce noise and improve durability. A redesigned roof antenna reduces the vehicle’s height


to under 1.9m, suiting it for more multi-storey car parks. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/726/91


Electric van uptake grows among SMEs


With UK businesses adapting to evolving emissions regulations and fleet decarbonisation targets, Tempcover’s temporary business van insurance experts surveyed 500 UK sole traders and SMEs who rely on vans as part of their work. The findings show that 30% have already added electric vans to their fleets, while 27% plan to switch within the next year and 31% are considering doing so within five years, ahead of the 2035 phase-out of new petrol/diesel vans. However, barriers remain.


Range anxiety is the biggest concern (39%), followed by high upfront costs (29%) and limited charging infrastructure (28%). More than half (55%) believe electric vans do not yet


meet their business needs, and 70% question their suitability for high-mileage work. Despite these concerns, 63% expect future policy and industry changes to steer them towards electric vans. Claire Wills-McKissick, temporary business van


insurance expert at Tempcover, says: “The transition to electric vans is a process that requires careful planning. The data shows that around a third of SMEs have already integrated EVs into their setups, while others are taking time to assess what works best for their operations. Given the scale of the decision, it seems businesses are focused on ensuring cost, capability, and operational infrastructure are firmly in place before committing.” ◼ phamnews.co.uk/726/93


electrification without increasing monthly outgoings. With monthly finance now equal


to diesel, SMEs can adopt electric vans immediately without higher payments, while benefiting from lower servicing costs and cheaper energy use over time. Citroën’s fully electric van line-up spans the Ami Cargo solution, ë-C3 Van, Berlingo Van, Dispatch and Relay, with the Berlingo Van built in the UK at the Ellesmere Port plant. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/726/90


Finance offer to remove cost barrier to EVs


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