It’s not automatically a bad time to buy a new diesel van in the UK — but it’s a more “needs-led” decision than it was a few years ago. If your work involves long motorway miles, towing, heavy payloads, or you need quick refuelling and nationwide coverage, a new Euro 6 diesel can still make solid sense. If you mainly do city work (especially in or around Clean Air Zones), an electric van is increasingly the safer long-term bet.
Where diesel still stacks up
High mileage and rural routes: Diesel remains efficient on longer runs and is easy to refuel anywhere.
Payload and range: For heavier-duty work, diesel often offers more usable range without planning charging stops.
Upfront cost: A comparable electric van can cost more to buy or lease, even after grants (grant levels can change and should be checked on Gov.uk).
The big risks with diesel right now
Urban charges and access: Most UK Clean Air Zones target older diesels; a new Euro 6 diesel is usually compliant, but rules and local exemptions can change. If your work is mostly city-centre, future tightening is the main worry.
Running costs: Diesel prices are unpredictable, and many fleets are moving to EVs where electricity can be cheaper per mile (depending on how and where you charge).
Residual values: Future demand for used diesels is harder to predict than it used to be, which matters if you’re buying outright or taking finance with a balloon.
Quick decision guide
Choose diesel if you regularly do long-distance work, tow, carry heavy loads, or can’t reliably charge. Consider electric if you do predictable daily routes, return to base, or spend time in CAZ areas. Remember: van VED is a flat rate (currently £345/year) regardless of emissions.
Natural follow-up: If you’re undecided, ask your dealer for both diesel and electric quotes on the same contract length and mileage, then compare total monthly cost including fuel/charging and any workplace charging installation.
