If you’ve been running a fleet of electric vans, you’ll know that the rules around the heavier models have been a bit of a headache for a while. But finally, we have some clarity! The government has officially set a date for the long-awaited changes to how 4.25-tonne (4.25t) electric vans are treated under UK law.
The News Fleets Have Been Waiting For
For a long time, electric vans weighing between 3.5 and 4.25 tonnes were stuck in a regulatory “no man’s land.” Because of their heavy batteries, they often fell under Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) rules, which meant extra red tape for drivers and managers alike.
According to the latest updates from Fleet News, the government has confirmed that from 1st June 2026, these vehicles will officially move to the Class 7 MOT system.
This is a massive win for the industry. It removes the need for these vans to undergo annual HGV testing from year one and, crucially, scraps the requirement for tachographs and speed limiters for most operators using the 4.25t derogation.
HGV vs Class 7: What’s Actually Changing?
Until this change kicks in, many 4.25t electric vans are technically governed by the same rules as massive lorries. From June 2026, the transition to Class 7 MOTs means:
No more tachographs: Drivers will no longer need to track their hours via a tachograph for these specific vehicles (provided they stay within the UK and meet the derogation criteria).
Simplified Testing: Instead of the rigorous HGV testing regime, these vans will follow the Class 7 MOT cycle, which starts three years after registration.
Reduced Costs: Less time in the testing centre and no tachograph calibration means more money staying in your business.
Easier Recruitment: You won’t necessarily need drivers with a full C1 licence category for these heavier EVs, provided they’ve completed the mandated five hours of training.
Making Your MOTs Stress-Free
We know that keeping track of MOT dates for a whole fleet can feel like spinning plates. That’s where we come in.
One of the easiest ways to manage this change is through our Achieve Driver App. We’ve designed it to take the weight off your shoulders. Your drivers can:
Book MOTs directly: No more back-and-forth phone calls; drivers can book their MOTs and services through the app.
Stay Compliant: Real-time notifications ensure no vehicle misses its new Class 7 MOT date.
Manage Maintenance: From tyre checks to scheduled servicing, everything is recorded in one place.
FAQs About 4.25t Electric Van MOTs
Do 4.25t electric vans need an MOT every year?
Currently, they often follow HGV rules, but from June 1, 2026, they will move to the Class 7 MOT regime. This means their first MOT will be due three years after registration, just like a standard van.
Are electric van tachograph rules changing?
Yes! The removal of the tachograph requirement for 4.25t vans is part of this update. It’s designed to encourage more businesses to switch to zero-emission vehicles without the burden of HGV “O” licence regulations.
What is the 4.25-tonne derogation?
It’s a rule that allows drivers with a standard Category B (car) licence to drive electric vans up to 4.25t (instead of the usual 3.5t limit), to account for the extra weight of the battery.
FAQs About Fleet Service GB
What does Fleet Service GB actually do?
We are a technology-led fleet management company. We help businesses manage everything from vehicle maintenance and MOTs to driver safety and accident management.
How does the Achieve Driver App help my business?
It connects your drivers directly to our management systems. It helps with daily vehicle checks, mileage reporting, and booking essential maintenance, ensuring your fleet stays safe and legal.
Ready to Get Sorted?
The 2026 deadline might feel like a way off, but the best time to get your fleet management processes in order is right now. Whether you are looking to streamline your Fleet Management or need a better way to handle Driver Management, we have the tools to help you succeed.
Don’t let regulatory changes slow you down. Let’s get your fleet moving forward.
Contact Fleet Service GB today to see how we can simplify your MOT and maintenance administration.