Almost half of brokers say fleet operators are not adapting to electric vehicles – Direct Commercial

Commercial motor operators have been slow in adapting to electric vehicle (EV) technology, particularly in the heavy goods vehicle (HGV) segment, according to new data. 

A broker poll from Direct Commercial revealed that only 13% believed their commercial motor clients were adapting well to electric or hybrid vehicles, while 44% said fleet operators were adapting poorly or not at all.

With the UK’s Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate adding increased pressure on van fleets to shift to electric – from a 10 % van quota in 2024 to 70% by 2030 – Direct Commercial stressed that brokers have a vital role to play in supporting clients through operational, financial and regulatory changes.

The figures also revealed that only 9% of brokers consider operators somewhat prepared when it comes to readiness for sustainability regulations. 

Joe Hantson, deputy chief executive at Direct Commercial, said:“Brokers are telling us the same story across the board.

”Fleets aren’t resisting the sustainability agenda – they’re navigating practical challenges at different speeds. In Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV), we’re seeing some adoption, but in HGVs it’s clear the shift will take far longer to gather momentum.”

Further data 

These findings from the latest DCL Broker Barometer were commissioned by Context Skythorn and polled a total of 64 UK brokers involved in the commercial motor markets between 6 June 2025 and 25 July 2025.

Despite movement, the data revealed that LCV electric vehicles still only account for around 7% of new registrations and made up a smaller proportion of total fleets with the addition of higher repair and maintenance costs.

The HGV segment has also faced particular difficulties due to limited vehicle availability, mileage concerns and infrastructure challenges continue to hold back EV penetration. 

Hantson added: “At DCL, we’re focused on supporting brokers and their clients as they explore new technology, helping them manage the cost implications of newer tech, and making sure resilience and compliance go hand in hand with progress.

”It’s about matching insurance solutions to the reality operators face today, not where the market might be in five years.”