What are the Best Vans for Electricians?

As an electrician, your work often involves a lot of traveling to various job sites while carrying a substantial load of tools and materials. Whether you’re accustomed to using a petrol-powered van or considering switching to an electric vehicle, choosing the right van for your needs is crucial. With the increasing popularity of electric vehicles, there are now several options to explore. In this comprehensive guide, the UK’s best electrician training team at Trade Skills 4 U will walk you through the best vans for electricians, both small and large, offering insights into their features and benefits.

Renault Kangoo

For electricians in search of a dependable and practical small van, the Renault Kangoo stands out as an excellent choice. As one of the best small vans for electricians, it offers various engine options, including TCe petrol and dCi diesel engines, ensuring excellent fuel efficiency while keeping operating costs in check. Moreover, the Kangoo boasts an exceptional driving position, making long days on the road comfortable and ergonomic. It even comes with standard Bluetooth connectivity, helping you stay connected and organised. The Renault Kangoo is a practical, fuel-efficient, and reliable option for electricians looking for a small van.

Vauxhall Movano

Proudly displaying the Vauxhall Griffin badge, the Movano is a true workhorse that shares its platform with other respected vans like the Citroen Relay. Available in three body lengths and three roof heights, the Movano offers flexibility, whether you prioritise load space volume or payload capacity. Even the largest L4H3 model can carry an impressive 1305kg. While the Movano comes in a single trim level, it includes must-have equipment like air conditioning, cruise control, and standard satellite navigation, ensuring it’s well-equipped for the job.

Volkswagen Caddy

The Volkswagen Caddy shines as a top-tier small van choice for electricians, thanks to its array of standout features. Notably, the Caddy offers various engine options, such as TSI petrol and TDI diesel engines, delivering outstanding fuel efficiency and ample power for your requirements. Despite its affordable price tag, the Caddy exudes a premium feel and drives like a Volkswagen car, providing an enjoyable experience, even on long journeys. With its exceptional value, reliability, and practicality, the Volkswagen Caddy is an excellent option for electricians looking to upgrade their vans.

Citroen Dispatch

Electricians in need of a dependable and practical medium-sized van should consider the Citroen Dispatch. It offers a range of engine options, including 1.5-liter and 2-liter BlueHDi diesel engines, as well as an electric variant called the e-Dispatch. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for electricians who must cover long distances or navigate low-emission zones. The Dispatch also provides a variety of body options to meet different work requirements, from the Enterprise Edition to the Van Driver Edition and Crew Van Edition. With ample space for tools and equipment, the Dispatch offers both functionality and comfort.

Ford Transit Custom

Compared to the Citroen Dispatch, the Ford Transit Custom enjoys more popularity among electricians in the UK due to its exceptional quality and reputation. It features a range of engine options, including the EcoBlue diesel, EcoBlue diesel hybrid, and TDCi diesel engines, offering versatility and efficiency. The Transit Custom is incredibly flexible, with various models like Van, Double-Cab-In-Van, and Kombi, catering to diverse work needs. Its ease of handling, from tight city streets to long motorway stretches, makes it a versatile choice for electricians who travel to different job sites. Additionally, the Transit Custom provides generous space for tools and equipment, simplifying the transport of materials between jobs.

Vauxhall Vivaro

The Vauxhall Vivaro is another fantastic option for electricians in need of a reliable and practical medium-sized van. Compared to the Ford Transit Custom and Citroen Dispatch, the Vivaro stands out for its fuel economy and excellent diesel engine choices, including 1.5-liter and 2-liter diesel engines, as well as an electric version. Its robust interior ensures comfort during long journeys, and the state-of-the-art suspension is designed to handle various road conditions, allowing electricians to move between jobs seamlessly. The Vivaro’s spacious load area provides ample room for all the electrical equipment you need to transport.

Why Choose an Electric Van?

Switching to an electric van can offer several advantages for electricians. With fuel costs on the rise, charging an electric van at home can result in substantial savings compared to petrol or diesel. Electric vans are often exempt from expensive charges like the London Congestion charge and ULEZ, further reducing operating costs. Additionally, electric vans tend to be more comfortable to drive due to their silent-running electric motors and single gears. Many vans on this list also feature fast-charging capabilities, enabling you to charge nearly the full battery in less than an hour.

Ford E-Transit Custom (Early 2024)

The iconic Ford Transit is getting an electric makeover with the E-Transit Custom, slated for production next year and deliveries expected in 2024. This electric van is up to the challenge, boasting a load capacity of up to nine cubic meters, an 1100kg payload, and an impressive 2000kg towing capacity. Equipped with a 75kWh battery offering a range of more than 235 miles (WLTP range figure), the van’s 125kWh charging speeds ensure you can recharge the battery from 15-85% in around 40 minutes. With a choice of two electric motors providing 133 or 214hp, the E-Transit Custom delivers ample power. It also features a spacious cabin filled with storage spaces, including a large, lidded cubby on the dashboard.

Radar Auto RD6 (Late 2023)

Introducing Radar Auto, a new electric brand from Geely, the Chinese company that also owns Volvo, Polestar, and Lotus. Their inaugural model, the RD6 pickup truck, offers a fresh take on electric vehicles. In addition to a regular truck bed (payload and capacity to be confirmed), the RD6 includes an extra boot under the bonnet, ideal for keeping luggage separate from your work equipment. Exact specifications are yet to be confirmed, but you can anticipate a choice between two and four-wheel drive versions and a battery capacity of up to 78kWh, providing a range of around 200 miles. Fast charging capabilities enable a 10-80% charge in approximately 30 minutes, ensuring you stay productive on the go.

As you can see, the right van can significantly enhance an electrician’s efficiency and productivity. When choosing a van, consider your specific needs, including load capacity, fuel efficiency, and driving comfort. With the advent of electric vans, you can not only meet your business requirements but also contribute to a greener and more sustainable future. Whether you choose a classic petrol-powered van or make the leap to electric, there are diverse options available to cater to your demands as a dedicated electrician on the move.

If you’re thinking about advancing your skills in the electrical industry or aspiring to become a certified electrician in the UK, explore the diverse range of courses available at Trade Skills 4 U. 

Our comprehensive selection of electrician courses and training programs covers the full spectrum of electrical work, including fundamental qualifications, electrical apprenticeships, and specialised skills. 

Feel free to reach out to our team today to discover more about the courses we provide as the best electrician training program in the UK.