The UK Government has today (18 March) changed the rules on the amount a new van owner is entitled to under the plug-in van grant scheme.
The total amount buyers of a new electric van can get off the purchase price of a new van has been dramatically slashed by the UK government. The changes come into effect immediately.
Read: Everything you need to know about the UK plug-in electric van grant
The plug-in grant system for new vans will now be split into two tiers covering small and large vans with a maximum grant for small vans limited to just £3000 and for large vans to £6000. There are new range criteria as well, with all vehicles now required to be able to travel emission-free for more than 60 miles.
The previous plug-in electric van grant system had covered all new electric vans with a grant for up to £8000.
The Government had previously stated its intention to lower the amount of support given to electric vehicles and had previously tightened the criteria in 2018.
Changes to the regulations covering grants for car buyers are even tighter with a maximum purchase price of £35,000 imposed on all electric cars. Any vehicle above that threshold will not be eligible for a government grant. The rule, however, does not affect commercial vehicle buyers.
Grants for new electric heavy goods vehicles have also been revised and now cover vehicles between 3,500kg and 12,000kg gross vehicle weight. Eligible trucks (or large vans over 3.5-tonnes) will have to have CO2 emissions of at least 50% less than the equivalent Euro VI standard and be able to carry the same capacity. Like the vans, they must also be able to travel at least 60 miles (96km) emission free. Grants for heavier vehicles will be £16,000.
