Category: Blog

As the UK pushes forward with its net-zero ambitions, a major new initiative is set to help fleet operators make the switch to electric vehicles (EVs). The Depot Charging Scheme, officially launched on the 16th July 2025. This is a government-backed grant programme designed to support the rollout of EV charging infrastructure for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), vans, and coaches across the UK.

This scheme is an important next step in decarbonizing the nation’s transport and logistic sectors and is a gamechanger for businesses that are ready to go electric.

What is the Depot Charging Scheme?

The Depot Charging Scheme provides financial support to help fleet operators cover the costs of installing EV charging points at their depots. While grants have long been available to help buy electric vans and trucks (Plug-in Van and Track Grant), the cost of installing the necessary charging infrastructure has remained a major barrier for many businesses.

The scheme aims to close that gap by funding up to 75% of the cost associated with purchasing and installing charge points and related civil works at fleet depots. Including trenching, cabling and electrical upgrades. It is worth noting that the grant does not cover the cost of buying electric vehicles or upgrading connections, but it does make the infrastructure side much more affordable.

Who Can Benefit?

The scheme is open to a wide range of organisations across the UK, including:

• Private and public sector fleet operators
• Local authorities
• Non-profit organisations

To qualify, applicants must:

There is no limit on the number of depot sites an organisation can include in a single application, as long as all locations meet the eligibility criteria. However, each organisation can submit only one application. The scheme is available in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, but not in the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man.

Key Numbers at a Glance

Funding available: Up to £1 million per applicant (covering 75% of eligible costs across all sites)

• Launch date: 16th July 2025
• Application deadline: 28th November 2025 or earlier if funding runs out
• Installation deadline: all works must be completed by 31st March 2026
• Claims window: Open from 1st September 2025 to 31st May 2026

This means organisations need to act fast. With limited funding and a tight timeline, early preparation is essential.

What Costs Are Covered?

Applicants must provide quotes and proof of financing for their share of the costs. The government will assess whether the proposed costs are reasonable and aligned with the fleet’s needs.

Support and Expert Guidance

To help applicants navigate the process, the government has partnered with Cenex and the Energy Saving Trust, two leading organisations in low-carbon transport and energy innovation. They will provide expert advice and support, particularly during the second stage of the application process, where details plans, budgets and risk assessments are required.

Why This Matters

The transport sector is one of the UK’s largest sources of carbon emissions, and commercial vehicles are a significant contributor. The Depot Charging Scheme is a vital part of the government’s strategy to decarbonise freight, delivery, and passenger transport.
By reducing the financial burden of installing charging infrastructure, the scheme makes it easier for fleets to transition to zero-emission vehicles. it works hand-in-hand with existing vehicle grants, creating a more complete support package for businesses going electric.

Next Steps for Fleet Operators

• If you operate a fleet of vans, HGVs or coaches and are considering electrification, now is the time to act:
• Check your eligibility: Do you meet the ownership, operational and vehicle requirements?
• Assess your depot(s): Do you have the space, grid capacity and approval (if needed)?
• Gather quotes: Get detailed cost estimates from installers for charge points and civil works
• Prepare your application: Use the templates provided by the government to build a strong case
• Submit early: Funding is limited and applications are assessed on a rolling basis

For fleet operators, this scheme represents a real opportunity to transition with confidence, knowing that support is available to help manage the upfront challenges of infrastructure investment.

In January this year we published a white paper entitled The 2025 Diesel Van Shortage: How the ZEV Mandate Will Impact Your Fleet. With the SMMT having just released the figures for LCV registrations through to the end of June, we thought it was time to revisit this important topic.

To recap, the Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate came into law at the beginning of 2024 and sets out the minimum proportion of a van manufacturers’ sales that must be electric each year until 2035 when the sales of new petrol and diesel vehicles will be outlawed.

The problem is that many fleets simply aren’t ready to move to electric vans because they don’t meet their needs – that might be down to one or more of a number of reasons, however, the main ones appear to be concerns over range, available charging infrastructure, payload capacity or acquisition costs and depreciation. Other challenges include inflated running costs if forced to use premium-rate charging.

If manufacturers don’t meet the sales targets then they are supposedly on the hook for massive fines of £18,000 for every non-qualifying ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) vehicle they sell. While the government has introduced some flexibilities to help manufacturers manage the transition, such as borrowing EV credits from future years, these will only store up bigger problems to come if demand doesn’t increase significantly.

In 2024, fleets bought or leased just over 22,000 new electric vans out of sales totaling 353,000 for the year – a paltry 6.3% against a government mandated target of 10%.

The situation for 2025 so far is even worse. While EV sales as a share of total vans sales are slightly up at 8.6% for the year to date, that has to be viewed against a much higher target of 16%.The manufacturers are therefore offering huge incentives to take on electric vans (irrelevant if they aren’t right for your business) and removing discounts from diesel vans, with the result that many fleets are simply sitting on their hands and doing nothing – hence the current 15% drop in new diesel van registrations for the first half of the year.

In order to further encourage demand, the Government recently launched a series of initiatives. The reintroduction of grants towards the cost of new BEVs should help, but support will also be needed in the second-hand market if this isn’t to further depress residual values.

A few days later, the government also introduced a grant scheme where public and private sector organisations can apply for support to install EV charging infrastructure at their depots. While this support is badly needed, it likely won’t have an immediate effect on sales as operators will need to go through a lengthy process of applying for the grant, sourcing a supplier and commissioning the installation.

All of this reinforces what we at FleetCheck have been saying for over a year now – that fleets are increasingly going to find themselves running older, higher mileage fleets of diesel vans where EVs aren’t suitable and replacement diesels have become too expensive, if they can be bought at all. And this needs major consideration if those fleets are to continue running safe, roadworthy and efficient vans.

Smaller fleets, who might traditionally purchase second-hand vans say five to ten years old, are going to struggle to access any vehicles at all as the number of available vans in the used market shrinks and scarcity keeps used values high. We’re already starting to see this play out, meaning some of those fleets are having to continue running vans that may now be ten or even fifteen years old.

Maintaining your aging van fleet: A new era for fleet management

Pro-active fleet management is now more critical than ever. The focus needs to shift from short van replacement cycles to diligent servicing, maintenance, and repair (SMR) regimes to keep these vehicles running safely and cost-effectively for longer.

Fleets must now pay greater attention to routine tasks like timing belt replacements, potentially multiple times during a van’s working life, and address issues of perishable components that perhaps weren’t on your radar before. Ignoring manufacturer recalls or MOT advisories on older, high-mileage vehicles will lead to costlier repairs and decreased efficiency, impacting consumables like tires and fuel. Forward planning for SMR is essential due to potential parts availability strains, with some operators even considering retaining older vehicles for spare parts.

Defect management is paramount
Robust pre-use vehicle checks are crucial for identifying minor issues – like underinflated tyres or fluid leaks – before they escalate into dangerous and expensive problems such as blowouts or engine failure. This not only fulfills duty-of-care obligations but also ensures older vans remain roadworthy.

Effective record-keeping and data collection
This will provide invaluable insights into wear trends, helping you assess the economic viability of each vehicle in real time to make the right vehicle replacement decisions. Fleet managers must ensure drivers are trained properly on pre-use checks, that defects are promptly rectified, and policies are consistently enforced.

Cost-cutting on maintenance is a false economy
Despite budget pressures, cutting back on preventive maintenance is a false economy. Neglecting upkeep leads to unsafe vans, increased breakdowns, and significant financial risks. Furthermore, a poorly maintained fleet can jeopardise existing contracts as an increase in unplanned VOR time hits service reliability.

In essence, adhering to manufacturer servicing, promptly addressing recalls, implementing rigorous pre-use checks with driver training, and meticulously analyzing maintenance data are vital steps to ensure your aging fleet remains safe, efficient, and compliant.

What to do next

If you’d like to discuss the implications of running a older, higher mileage vehicles as part of your fleet, and how FleetCheck can help ensure your vehicles are as safe and efficient as possible, give one of our team a call on 01666 575900.

Other useful articles
The 2025 Diesel Van Shortage: How the ZEV Mandate Will Impact Your Fleet
The hidden dangers of wet timing belts: What fleet managers need to know

It’s 7am. A driver’s failed a roadside inspection, your phone’s ringing with updates from the DVSA, and you’re scrambling to replace a vehicle to meet a tight customer deadline, all while totting up in your head: how much is this going to cost in downtime, potential fines, and reputational damage? This constant reactive state of compliance and putting out fires is exhausting. But it’s also avoidable.

The DVSA’s Earned Recognition was born from one critical question: What does ‘good’ really look like?
This isn’t just another regulatory box to tick, or a way for the DVSA to keep tabs on your operations and ‘catch you out’. It’s your chance to move one step ahead of reactive compliance – and become recognised as one of the safest, most compliant, and professional operators on the road. This recognition translates into fewer roadside stops, lower insurance premiums, less administrative burden, and stronger standing with both Traffic Commissioners and commercial clients. With the right systems in place – automated KPI tracking, dedicated dashboards, audit-ready reports, and clear oversight – meeting the scheme’s requirements is more achievable than you think.

That’s where FleetCheck comes in…We help you turn compliance from a cost into an advantage.

How FleetCheck Supports Your ER Journey

FleetCheck is a DVSA-validated IT supplier for Earned Recognition, so can monitor, manage, and report your maintenance compliance from one place. This means you can easily demonstrate that you’re meeting your O-licence requirements – digitally, and in real-time.

Be Audit Ready – With Less Stress
Every two years, ER operators undergo a DVSA-authorised audit. These audits go beyond compliance checks, covering areas like:

• Driver wellbeing
• Training
• Counter-terrorism awareness
• Vehicle maintenance and testing

With FleetCheck’s built-in ER dashboard (included as standard at no extra cost), you have a live overview of all your vehicle records. You’ll be able to track key DVSA indicators in real time – including inspection schedules, MOT outcomes, and defect reporting and resolution – giving you time to spot potential issues and rectify them swiftly, before the information goes to the DVSA.

Meet Your KPIs With Ease
FleetCheck helps you stay on top of the vehicle-related Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that form the backbone of the Earned Recognition scheme. Reports are automatically generated and sent to the DVSA via email, making compliance simpler and more reliable. Because all your data is pulled together and formatted to meet DVSA standards, you can clearly visualise your KPIs and see how you’re performing, as well as confidently submit accurate, up-to-date information – without the usual admin headache.

Want to test your current performance? FleetCheck lets you explore the ER dashboard before formally joining the scheme, so you can benchmark your fleet’s compliance and readiness. To support your journey, you can use our ER checklist to help you carry out a full self-assessment to see if your fleet meets the required criteria.

Are You a New Operator?
If you’ve held your O-licence for less than 6 months, you’re not yet eligible to join Earned Recognition – but that doesn’t mean that you can’t start preparing. Through the Road to Earned Recognition Scheme, new operators can start building best practices and good compliance into their business from the get-go. With FleetCheck, you’ll have the tools to track KPIs, avoid early pitfalls, and demonstrate a proactive approach to safety – so when the time comes, you’re ready to apply for ER with confidence.

You’re Always in Control of Your Data
Concerned about visibility? The DVSA does not have unrestricted access to your fleet data. Instead, they receive a PDF snapshot of your vehicle KPI metrics every four weeks. FleetCheck also gives you a two-week preview window before submission, so you can review your data, investigate any anomalies, and provide explanations if needed. And while FleetCheck focuses on vehicle KPIs, for your driver compliance we partner with VDO, Europe’s leading tachograph software, giving you a complete compliance solution across the board.

Real Results: How Wolseley Made It Work

The best part is how this all plays out in real business. Wolseley, a FleetCheck client, has held Earned Recognition status for over three years. With 950 vehicles across 250 depots, staying on top of compliance from a central hub wasn’t easy, but they were determined to lead the industry.

With FleetCheck and ER, they’ve achieved:

• PMI slippages dropped from 3-4 per month to 3-4 per year
• Tachograph infringements rates down to 4%
• Defect rectification is faster and more automated
• £33 million fleet investment over 4 years
• Peace of mind – their compliance Manager can sleep at night, even after serious incidents, knowing their systems are rock solid

Remember: the best operators aren’t just following rules – they’re setting the standard. And with Earned Recognition and FleetCheck, the tools to get there have never been more accessible.

Find Out More

Ready to take your fleet operations to the next level and prove yourself as an exemplary operator? Contact FleetCheck today to discover how our system can help you alleviate your Earned Recognition concerns and give you peace of mind that your fleet operations are safe, compliant, and commercially viable. Visit Gov.uk for detailed scheme information, or email DVSAER@DVSA.gov.uk or R2ER@DVSA.gov.uk to enquire and apply today.

Heat-Related Fatigue and Dehydration
• High temperatures can cause fatigue and irritability, reducing concentration and reaction times.
• Even a 5% drop in hydration can lead to a 30% decrease in concentration. Keep a bottle of water in your vehicle and drink regularly to stay alert.
• Sun glare is intensified in summer. Keep windscreens clean and wear sunglasses to reduce eye strain and improve visibility.¹

Increased Traffic and Unfamiliar Road Users
• Summer holidays mean more vehicles on the road, including caravans, horseboxes, cyclists, and pedestrians. Many may be unfamiliar with the routes, leading to sudden stops or erratic manoeuvres.
• Construction and road maintenance are common in summer, causing congestion and tempting drivers to rush once clear of roadworks. Plan routes and allow extra time for delays.

Vehicle Wear and Tear
• Tyre pressure: Higher temperatures increase tyre pressure, raising the risk of blowouts. Check tyre condition and pressure monthly. For every 10° increase or decrease in temperature, tyre pressure can be affected by approximately 1-2 PSI (0.1 bar), even if the vehicle hasn’t been driven.²
• Coolant and Engine: Hot weather can lead to overheating. Regularly top up coolant and turn off the engine if stuck in traffic to prevent overheating.
• Air Conditioning: Pools of water under your vehicle are often from conditioning condensation, not leaks. Vapour from vents is normal in hot weather.

Distractions and Reduced Attention
• Drivers tend to be more relaxed and easily distracted in summer, especially with increased sunlight and longer journeys. Stay focused and avoid using mobile devices or adjusting infotainment systems while driving.
• After rain, roads can become extra slippery, particularly following long dry spells. Driver carefully and adjust speed as needed.

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has recently introduced updated brake testing rules as part of its ongoing efforts to improve road safety and ensure that commercial vehicles are maintained to the highest standards. These changes require fleet operators to adopt new procedures and tools during safety inspections. In this article, we’ll break down the key updates, explain their implications, and provide you with actionable tips to help you stay compliant.

What Are the New Brake Testing Rules?

Under the updated regulations, each safety inspection must now include a comprehensive brake performance test using one of the three approved methods:
1. Electronic Brake Performance Monitoring Systems (EBPMS)
This system allows operators to measure bake performance in real-time during normal vehicle operation. It provides detailed data on braking efficiency, helping identify issue before they come critical

2. Decelerometer with Temperature Readings:
A decelerometer measures the rate at which a vehicle slows down during braking. The inclusion of temperature readings ensures that brake performance is assessed under various conditions, including heavy use or high temperatures, which can impact braking effectiveness.

3. Roller Brake Tester:
Traditional roller brake testers remain an acceptable method for assessing brake force distribution and overall performance. However, operators must ensure their equipment is calibrated and functioning correctly to meet the new standards.
These methods aim to provide a more accurate and reliable assessment of braking systems, reducing the risk of accidents caused by brake failure.

Why Have These Changes Been Introduced?

The DVSA has implemented these updates in response to rising concerns about brake related incidents involving commercial vehicles. Poorly maintained brakes can lead to catastrophic accidents, endangering drivers, passengers, and other road users. By mandating the use of advanced testing methods, the DVSA seeks to:

• Improve the accuracy of brake performance assessments
• Identify potential issues earlier, reducing the likelihood of brake failure
• Enhance overall road safety and compliance with regulatory standards

As stated by the DVSA, “ensuring brake systems are functioning optimally is critical to maintaining road safety”

What Does This Mean for Fleet Operators?

Fleet operators must adapt to these new requirements to remain compliant and avoid penalties. Here are four actionable steps to consider:

1. Invest in Approved Equipment:
If you don’t already have access to an EBPMS or a decelerometer with temperature readings, now is the time to invest in these tools

2. Train Your Team:
Ensure that your mechanics and safety inspectors are trained to use the new equipment effectively and interpret the results accurately

3. Update Inspection Protocols:
Incorporate the new brake testing methods into your routine safety inspections. Document all findings meticulously to demonstrate compliance during audits

4. Schedule Regular Maintenance:
Proactive maintenance can help prevent brake related issues from arising in the first place. Regular checks and timely repairs are essential for keeping your fleet safe and roadworthy

Benefits of the New Rules

While the updated brake testing rules may require initial investment and adjustments, they offer significant long-term benefits, such as:

• Improved Safety: enhanced testing methods ensure that vehicles are safer to operate, reducing the risk of accidents
• Reduced VOR Time: Early detection of brake issues minimises unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs
• Regulatory Compliance; Staying up to date with DVSA requirements helps avoid fines, penalties, and reputational damage

A Step Towards a Safer Future

These new brake testing rules from the DVSA represent a positive step toward improving road safety and ensuring that commercial vehicles are maintained to the highest standards. By adopting approved testing methods and updating your inspection protocols, you can safeguard your fleet, protect your drivers, and remain compliant with regulatory requirements.