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Licence changes for large electric vans to come into effect in June

Craig Cheetham, contributor
Fri, 30 May 2025

Changes to driving licence regulations will come into effect on June 10, 2025, to encourage the uptake of more large electric and hydrogen-powered vans.

The licence changes will remove the need for drivers to undergo extra training before driving vans with these fuel types, weighing up to 4.25 tonnes.

Currently, models such as the Mercedes-Benz eSprinter and soon-to-arrive Vauxhall Movano Hydrogen require drivers to undertake additional training to drive vans over 3.5 tonnes, but this requirement will be removed in a bid to encourage more van users to consider alternative fuels.

Alternatively fuelled vans weighing from 3.5 tonnes to 4.25 tonnes already have a gross vehicle weight derogation that enables individuals with a category B (passenger car) licence to drive them, but drivers need to do five hours of additional training before being permitted to drive them.

The amendment covers vans, minibuses, trucks and any vehicle that you can usually drive using a category B licence up to 3.5 tonnes. The rule change will also allow drivers to tow with 4.25-tonne vehicles

Drivers will also be able to tow using a 4.25-tonne ZEV, providing that the MAM of the vehicle and trailer combination does not exceed seven tonnes.

Ask HJ

What used van should I buy?

I have to find a new medium sized van quickly and am getting confused as to which to go for. I currently have a 2017 Ford Transit Custom which needs too much money spending on it. I had a new wet belt when I bought it and a new turbo two years later. I now find I need to replace both again and I've only had it 5 years. I also had issues with the adblue system after my turbo went so I am feeling a little sensitive about buying another Transit Custom although I love the van itself. Previously I had a 2015 Renault Trafic which was great until the fuel injectors rusted into the top of the engine so wiping out any value. I've looked at VW Transporters but they seem generally to be £3k over the price of the other two so am a bit wary of spending that much and would it be worth it? They are also scarce in my price range. My budget with borrowed money and finance is £11k although lower would be better unless it is a spectacularly good van then possibly £12/13k. Please help!
For your budget, a good choice would be a used Mercedes Vito with less than 100k on the clock. The pre-2019 models use a tried and tested 2.2-litre CDI diesel engine which is well-respected for its reliability.
Answered by Craig Cheetham
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