PHAM NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2026 38 Vans& Racking


Overloaded vans could result in


prosecution


New fi gures show overloading was the most common light goods vehicle (LGV) off ence reported for prosecution in 2024/25, accounting for 300 of 448 cases. The fi gures, based on Driver


and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) data analysed by Tempcover, show overloading cases increased by 55.4% from 193 in 2023/24. Construction and use off ences, which include issues relating to vehicle condition and maintenance, were the second most common category. More serious overloading


off ences can result in court action, with vehicles found to be more than 30% over the legal limit likely to face prosecution. The data shows 294 of the 300 overloading cases resulted in a conviction.


Across all 448 LGV off ences


reported for prosecution in 2024/25, 434 resulted in a conviction, giving an overall conviction rate of 97%. The fi gures highlight the


importance of checking a van’s maximum authorised mass (MAM) before loading tools, materials and equipment. Drivers should also carry out regular checks of tyres, lights, brakes and the general condition of the vehicle.


Don’t ignore the signs


Insurance experts at Quotezone. co.uk are warning van drivers that ignoring dashboard warning lights could have consequences beyond costly repairs, including the risk of invalidating their insurance. The comparison site says insurers may refuse a claim if an accident is linked to a known fault that had not been repaired, such as worn tyres, faulty brakes or an engine warning light. Drivers could also face legal penalties if their vehicle is found to be in a dangerous condition. Defective vehicles are involved


in around 1,300 collisions each year, accounting for about 3% of all collisions in Great Britain.


Under the Road Traffic Act 1988, motorists are legally responsible for ensuring their vehicle is safe and roadworthy, with penalties including fines of up to £2,500, three penalty points and, in some cases, a driving ban. Financial pressures may be prompting some to delay maintenance, but this could prove more expensive in the long run. Alongside responding promptly to warning lights, drivers should carry out routine checks on tyres, brakes, lights, windows and mirrors to keep their vans roadworthy and reduce the risk of insurance problems. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/926/89


For businesses operating


multiple vans, drivers should understand their responsibilities around loading, vehicle inspections, testing, tax and registration. “Where extra carrying capacity


is needed, fl exible options such as temporary van insurance allow tradespeople and fl eet managers to insure an additional vehicle or driver on-demand without risking non-compliance,” says Tempcover’s Claire Wills-McKissick. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/926/87


New from Bunker is the S2 Slim Slider, a slimline storage solution that sits perfectly at the side of a van’s sliding door or rear double doors, making tools and equipment easily accessible from its smooth sliding drawer. Featuring a high-security, low-profile design and ball-bearing drawer slides which allow the full extension of the drawer, it’s suitable for storing power tools and equipment. For maximum security, it’s fitted with a 70mm stainless steel disc lock that’s drill, pick and rust- resistant. With a load-bearing top designed to withstand the weight of heavy items and pallets (1,000kg load rating), the S2 Slim Slider combines ultimate durability with versatility. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/926/88


What’s holding back the switch to EVs?


Of those yet to switch, 58% are considering doing so within the next fi ve years, with 27% expecting to make the move within the next 12 months. Range anxiety was the biggest barrier, cited by 39%


of respondents. Upfront purchase costs (29%) and charging infrastructure (28%) were also identifi ed as key obstacles. More than half (55%) said current electric vans do


not meet the needs of their business, while 70% had concerns about reliability for high-mileage or long- distance work. More than half (52%) also said they did not feel suffi ciently informed to decide whether switching would be right for their business. Despite these concerns, the research suggests


Almost a third of UK small businesses that rely on vans have introduced electric vehicles, but concerns over driving range and upfront costs continue to slow wider adoption. A Tempcover survey of 500 SMEs and sole traders found that 30% already use electric vans.


UV exposure while driving


Although the intense summer weather seems to have passed for the year, sunny weather can still expose van drivers to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, particularly when driving with the window open. Research from MoneySuper-


SV Sport makes its debut


A new Sport model has been added to the Farizon SV electric van range, combining the standard L1H1’s specifi cation with a new exterior styling package. Developed with UK converter CPD Bodies, the SV Sport features a front splitter, side skirts, rear diff user, roof spoiler and 20-inch alloy wheels. It is available in a range of new colours and retains the standard model’s 170kW powertrain, with up to 1,350kg payload and 6.95m3 ◼ phamnews.co.uk/926/91


of load space.


Market found that 63% of 1,000 van drivers surveyed regularly drive with their windows down, while almost half (44%) do not apply any sun protection before driving. Dr Ed Robinson, a cosmetic


doctor, said windscreens typically block most UVB and a large proportion of UVA, while side windows can allow more UVA through. UVA can penetrate deeper into the skin and is associated with pigmentation, premature ageing and skin cancer risk.


attitudes may change as the market develops. 63% said future policy changes and improvements in electric van technology would infl uence their decision, while 56% said they would be more likely to switch if competitors adopted electric vans fi rst. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/926/90


A neat fi t for tight spaces


Repeated exposure can contribute


to an uneven tan, sometimes referred to as ‘white van tan’, particularly on the right side of the face, neck, arm and hand. Robinson says longer-term eff ects can include pigmentation, rough skin, redness and actinic keratoses. Van drivers can spend long


periods behind the wheel, with the UK UV index reaching moderate or high levels during sunny periods. Robinson recommends applying broad- spectrum SPF 50 to exposed areas including the face, neck, ears, hands and arms before driving. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/926/92


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