New electric van training module launched to reflect licence change

A new electric van training course has been launched by Red Corporate Driver Training as a result of Government changes to licensing requirements.

The new module aims to help companies that run heavier electric vans, which now no longer need additional driving licence requirements. 

From June 2025, drivers with a standard UK category B licence will be able to drive electric vans weighing up to 4.25 tonnes – removing the requirement for an additional five hours of training.

Red Corporate Driver Training’s new course has been launched to help employees familiarise themselves with some of the attributes of these zero-emission vans, such as their increased weight and the impact this has on handling and braking.

As well as taking place at Red’s Donington Park training centre, the sessions will be offered nationwide at traffic-free locations.

In addition, the course will offer familiarisation with ADAS (advanced driver assistance systems) such as lane keeping assist and collision mitigation systems which are fitted to these new electric vans, but which drivers may not have experienced before with older diesel vans.

Greg Ford, head of corporate at Red, said: “This new breed of larger electric vans present a challenge to drivers and we believe that companies should acknowledge that and ensure their drivers receive some basic introductory training to ensure road safety.

“While the transition from an ICE van to an EV one may not appear to be significant, there are key differences which could catch out an unaware driver.

“One of the main ones to look out for is regenerative braking, which slows the vehicle when the driver lifts off the accelerator – this instant retardation force could be an issue on faster roads.

“e-LCVs also accelerate much more quickly than traditional diesel vans, so again drivers need to be familiar with the performance of the vehicle away from traffic.

“Finally, because e-LCVs are so quiet, drivers need to be trained on their hazard awareness skills – especially around pedestrians who may step out into the road without hearing a vehicle approaching.”

As well as physical training, Red is also offering companies an online training module through its SafetyFirst risk management platform.