Why an EV Installer in Southampton Made the Switch to an Electric Van
As an EV charger installer in Southampton, I recently transitioned from a diesel Citroën Berlingo to a Peugeot e-Expert electric van. With lower running costs, reduced maintenance, and zero road tax, the switch made perfect sense—especially since I work within an 8–10 mile radius and install EV charging points for customers daily. For the same budget, I could choose between a 7-year-old diesel van with 75,000 miles or a 4-year-old electric van with just 27,000 miles. The electric option was the smarter investment. This move not only benefits my business financially but also reassures customers that I genuinely believe in the technology I install. Ready to make the switch? Contact Solid Electrics Limited for expert EV charger installations in Southampton.
Transitioning to an Electric Van: Why I Made the Switch
At Solid Electrics Limited, we specialise in EV charger installations, helping customers embrace the shift to electric vehicles. But recently, I leaped myself—transitioning from my Citroën Berlingo diesel van to a Peugeot e-Expert electric van. It wasn’t just about reducing fuel costs or aligning with industry trends; it was about making a practical, future-proof choice for my business and testing the technology I install daily.
Why Go Electric?
Through conversations with my customers, I often discuss the benefits of EVs—from lower running costs to reduced environmental impact. But beyond talking about it, I wanted to experience it firsthand. My work primarily covers a 30-minute or 8–10 mile radius from Southampton, which means an electric van is a perfect fit.
Installing an EV charging point at home was an obvious next step. If I’m installing them for customers, why not use one myself? It’s a great way to showcase my expertise and reassure customers that I genuinely believe in the technology.
Cost Comparison: Diesel vs. Electric
One of the biggest factors in my decision was the overall cost of owning and running a vehicle. Here’s how the two compare:
Purchase Cost Comparison
For the same budget, I had two options:
- Diesel Van: 7 years old with 75,000 miles on the clock
- Electric Van: 4 years old with 27,000 miles on the clock
The electric van was not only newer and had lower mileage, but it also offered significant long-term savings on running costs.
Annual Running Costs
Diesel Van (Citroën Berlingo)
- Road tax: £350
- Fuel (diesel): ~£1,800 per year
- Maintenance & Common Issues:
- Clogged DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter)
- EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve failures
- Turbo issues
- AdBlue system failures
Electric Van (Peugeot e-Expert)
- Road tax: £0
- Electricity (charging at home): ~£250 per year
- Maintenance:
- More frequent tyre replacements due to the additional weight of the battery
- Less brake pad and disc wear thanks to regenerative braking
Business Benefits of an Electric Van
Switching to an electric van has already proven beneficial in several ways:
- Lower Running Costs: Charging at home is significantly cheaper than refuelling with diesel.
- Fewer Repairs: No more worries about clogged filters, EGR valves, or turbo failures.
- Better Value for Money: A newer electric van with lower mileage for the same price as an older, high-mileage diesel van.
- Customer Confidence: Driving an EV shows customers that I don’t just install these systems; I believe in them enough to rely on one daily.
Looking Ahead
While the Peugeot e-Expert is a great upgrade, I’m still considering an even bigger model. As my business grows and I take on more solar and battery storage installations, having a van with more space will be an advantage.
For now, I’m enjoying the switch, testing the tech, and proving that EVs aren’t just the future—they’re the present. If you're considering an EV or need a charging point installed, feel free to get in touch!
📞 Call: 023 8181 0636
🔗Website: Solid Electrics Limited
