Bedeo is warning the UK Government that the large van sector may fall short of the country’s zero emission vehicle (ZEV) and net-zero targets without urgent intervention. In an open letter to ministers, the UK-based company specializing in large van electrification and retrofit technology highlights that large battery-electric vans remain a niche market. Electric vans in the 3.5–4.25-tonne category currently hold just 0.5% market share.
Fleet operators cite concerns around payload loss, range limitations, and cost. Bedeo forecasts that by 2030, even the ‘greenest’ fleet owners will struggle to convert more than 50% of their fleet to zero-emissions due to these barriers. “Electric vans just don’t have the same payload as diesel – it’s not even close,” warned Osman Boyner, founder and CEO of Bedeo. “Fleet managers tell us they’re ready to convert 60-70% of diesel vans – but not until cost and performance improve. Today, they’re ready for range extender and retrofit – but they need Government support.”
Bedeo’s Solutions and Proposals
Bedeo’s Reborn Electric solutions, including the RE-100 Range Extender, have demonstrated real-world effectiveness. The RE-100 delivers more than 100 km of fully electric driving per charge while retaining the original diesel engine and performance of the base vehicle. However, payload restrictions remain an issue, prompting Bedeo to lobby for legislative change.
The company has received a letter of intent from fleet operators to purchase 500 retrofitted vehicles, showing growing commercial confidence in their solution. Bedeo outlines three immediate policy changes needed to support adoption of retrofit and hybrid electrification:
- Grant scheme inclusion for range extender technologies
- Licence weight tolerance adjustments for range extender vehicles
- Formal recognition of retrofit range extender solutions in decarbonisation policy
“The logistics industry is the backbone of the UK economy,” said Boyner. “LCVs are the single largest contributor to logistics-related emissions, responsible for 40%. If the UK wants to lead on decarbonisation, we need pragmatic and scalable solutions now – and retrofit is one of the most impactful tools we have to reduce emissions without delay or disruption.”
Bedeo has written to key government officials, including the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero and the Financial Secretary to the Treasury, seeking clarification on the recognition of range extender technology for goods transport vehicles.
