OVER THREE-QUARTERS OF VAN DRIVERS EXPERIENCE NEGATIVE BEHAVIOUR FROM OTHER MOTORISTS

Over Three-Quarters of Van Drivers Face Negative Behaviour on the Road, PEUGEOT Research Reveals

A striking 78% of van drivers have experienced negative behaviour from other road users simply because they drive a van, according to new research commissioned by PEUGEOT.

The poll, conducted among 1,000 drivers who use a van for work, uncovered a worrying trend of road abuse. More than half (53%) reported being cut up on the road, while 51% have been verbally sworn at, and 41% experienced tailgating. Alarmingly, one in four van drivers (26%) revealed they have even been threatened with physical violence.

The majority of van drivers (79%) believe these hostile reactions stem from the way other motorists perceive them. Over 70% feel misunderstood by the general public—a sentiment that rises to 78% among electric van drivers.

Challenging Negative Stereotypes

Common stereotypes associated with van drivers include aggressive behaviour (46%), poor driving (43%), and driving dirty or untidy vehicles (35%). However, these negative perceptions are contradicted by van drivers themselves. Two-thirds (67%) say they actively try to be mindful of other road users, and more than half (53%) believe they are more skilled than many other motorists, citing the unique challenges of driving a van compared to a car.

These negative experiences clearly impact driving behaviour. A large majority (71%) say they feel the need to defend themselves or prove their driving competence while on the road. Additionally, 61% admit to feeling pressure to drive more carefully or vigilantly because of how they think they are perceived, and half of all van drivers have adjusted their route, parking, or driving style to avoid conflict with others.

Even when not driving, van drivers feel judged. Nearly 80% say they are frequently criticised for taking up space while parking in cities, highlighting how misconceptions extend beyond the road itself.

Positive Shift for Electric Van Drivers

In contrast, electric van drivers report more positive perceptions—56% feel they are viewed favourably when charging in public spaces. Furthermore, 64% of electric van drivers believe they are perceived more positively by other road users since switching from petrol or diesel vans.

PEUGEOT is a leader in the electric van market, offering three fully electric models: the E-PARTNER, E-EXPERT, and E-BOXER. These models are part of the widest electric commercial vehicle range among mainstream European brands. All qualify for the government’s Plug-in Van Grant, which offers up to £5,000 off and has recently been extended until 2027. PEUGEOT also supports business customers with 0% APR on Conditional Sale for all electric vans, easing the transition to cleaner vehicles.

Pride and Professionalism in Van Ownership

PEUGEOT’s research found that van drivers take significant pride in maintaining their vehicles. A remarkable 96% agree that keeping their van clean and well-maintained is important, and 86% say turning up to work in a dirty van would damage their professional reputation.

Cleaning habits vary, but many are meticulous: 32% clean their van weekly, 27% every few days, and 14% daily. Electric van drivers are particularly fastidious, with 26% cleaning their vehicle daily and 42% doing so every few days.

Regular maintenance is also common. Over a quarter (28%) check their van weekly for issues like tyre condition, oil levels, and brakes, while 19% carry out checks every few days, and another 19% do so daily. Over the course of a year, van drivers spend an average of £1,389 maintaining their vehicles.

To help reduce maintenance costs, PEUGEOT offers a four-year service plan for commercial customers priced at just £199 for electric vans or £299 for diesel models.

Safety and Reputation Drive Care

Safety is the primary motivation for van drivers to look after their vehicles, with 70% citing it as their main reason. However, personal pride and maintaining a good professional image also play a significant role, with 57% identifying these factors as key motivators.

PEUGEOT’s Electric Van Line-Up

PEUGEOT’s all-electric van range offers a practical blend of efficiency, performance, and versatility to suit various business needs:

• The E-PARTNER is the UK’s best-selling compact electric van in 2024. Manufactured at Ellesmere Port, it offers a range of up to 213 miles (WLTP).
• The mid-sized E-EXPERT delivers a 219-mile range (WLTP), with up to 6.6m³ of load space and a payload capacity of 1,220kg.
• The largest model, the E-BOXER, provides up to 263 miles of range (WLTP) and supports rapid charging from 0 to 80% in just 55 minutes.

In summary, while van drivers frequently face negative perceptions and behaviour from other road users, PEUGEOT’s research shows that many are conscientious, skilled, and take pride in their vehicles. The rise of electric vans is also shifting public attitudes positively, making it a promising time for cleaner, smarter commercial transport.

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