Britain’s low-carbon automotive sector has made significant progress in early 2025. Amazon and M&S have integrated lower-emission vehicles into their logistics fleets, while the government extended the Plug-in Van Grant to April 2026 — clear signs the transition to cleaner transport is accelerating.
Commercial fleets must be central to this shift. Recent data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders shows growth in zero-emission trucks and HGVs has stalled despite strong consumer demand for sustainable logistics and the approaching diesel vehicle ban.
High upfront costs have historically deterred fleet operators from adopting low-carbon fuels. This barrier is weakening. The extended Plug-in Van Grant, advancements in battery technology, and increasing model availability are bringing the total cost of ownership closer to diesel vehicles.
Businesses transitioning early will capture these benefits first.
Charging infrastructure — long a major concern — is expanding rapidly. Currently, fewer than five dedicated HGV charge points exist across UK roads. However, both government and private sector initiatives are accelerating development.
In January, Aegis Energy announced plans to build the UK’s first network of clean, multi-energy hubs for commercial vehicles — a significant advancement for fleet electrification.
Fleets need infrastructure that works in real-world conditions. Many electric van drivers can’t use public charging networks because their vehicles don’t fit standard bays, and the lack of booking systems creates operational uncertainty.
The Logistics UK Van Report 2023 confirms this challenge — a third of respondents cited power infrastructure as a major obstacle to decarbonisation.
Depot charging installation brings high upfront costs and complex planning applications. Purpose-built public access multi-energy hubs, paired with innovative financing models, offer a more accessible alternative. Early adopters will future-proof operations while unlocking long-term savings as demand for sustainable transport grows.
Range anxiety remains a concern, especially for long-distance logistics operations. Battery range improvements and expanding high-power charging networks are addressing this issue. Delivery vehicles, tradespeople, and freight operators need reliable charging — something that’s becoming increasingly available.
Aegis Energy’s infrastructure meets the needs of large clean fuel fleets while setting new standards for driver welfare. Our initial five-station network in Sheffield, Immingham, Warrington, Corby, and Towcester will be completed by 2027.
Each hub is expected to reduce carbon equivalent emissions by 14,300 tonnes annually.
The transition to clean commercial transport isn’t a future concept — it’s happening now. Businesses embracing electrification today will gain cost savings, operational resilience, and competitive advantages. With diesel ban deadlines approaching and infrastructure expanding, the opportunity to lead this industry shift has never been greater. Fleet operators who act now will position themselves at the forefront of a cleaner, more efficient transport sector.
