For years, vehicle manufacturers have been finding new ways to make their models more economically friendly in a bid to tackle global warming.
And now, with a large number of manufacturers having had produced vehicles which offer lower CO2 emissions with more miles per gallon compared to the older vehicles, motorists may find that the greener van not only has a positive impact to the environment, but also on how much is being spent.
The cost of running a green vehicle is much cheaper than running an older car or van as insurers offer lower
insurance premiums. Road tax is also cheaper depending on its CO2 emissions.
However, despite these factors, drivers are still opting to go for the older second hand vehicles due to the high prices of the newer models.
Second hand vans popular
According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), van drivers are hesitant to purchase new commercial vehicles and are showing more interest in second hand vehicles.
Since the recession, the number of motorists opting out of buying a new vehicle has increased, as more people are struggling for the cash.
As a result of the cradit crunch, the new van industry has suffered a great decline in sales after a number of businesses collapsed as more homeowners opted to DIY rather than hiring someone to carry out work, such as painting, plumbing, and even building, in their homes.
The Government are now taking new steps to urge motorists to opt for a new van.
Is the scrappage scheme encouraging new van sales?
The Government have recently implemented a scrappage scheme in order to help boost new van sales.
The scheme provides discounts on selected vehicles providing the driver allows for his vehicle to be crushed.
However, despite the scheme, van drivers seem to be showing less interest in new vans after figures from the British Car Auctions (BCA) revealed that van values increased over £900 in May compared to statistics from the end of 2008.
The BCA's Duncan Ward said: "Buyers are paying the best prices for vans in good condition, and particularly vehicles boasting an enhanced 'retail-style' specification - metallic paint, up-rated interior trim, in-van entertainment, aircon with bulkhead and satnav, for example."
Customers are being urged to use the scrappage scheme to get discounts on newer vehicles, which will prove to offer reduced running costs in the future.
Those looking to purchase a new eco friendly van as a bid to reduce their
van insurance premiums may now be able to benefit from a new website to help them make the right choice.
Need help finding the best eco friendly van?
A new online database has been launched to help van insurance customers chose a vehicle based on factors such as CO2 emissions and fuel consumption.
The website, from the Vehicle Certification Agency, the SMMT, and the Department for Transport (DfT), highlights the best eco friendly models great on both emissions and fuel consumption.
Andrew Adonis, the transport secretary said: "This database is good news for van buyers - it gives them access to emissions and fuel consumption information that could well shape the van they choose, as well as enable them to cut emissions and save money."
