RED Corporate Driver Training launches new e-LCV training module to help fleets transition from diesel to electric vans



RED Corporate Driver Training has launched a new electric van training course as a result of Government changes to licensing requirements.


The new module will help companies which run heavier electric LCVs, which now no longer need additional driving licence requirements. From June 2025, drivers with a standard UK category B licence will be able to drive electric vans weighing up to 4.25 tonnes – removing the requirement for an additional five hours of training.


RED Corporate Driver Training’s new course has been launched to help employees familiarise themselves with some of the attributes of these zero-emission vans, such as their increased weight and the impact this has on handling and braking. As well as taking place at RED’s Donington Park training centre, the sessions will be offered nationwide at traffic-free locations.


In addition, the course will offer familiarisation with ADAS (advanced driver assistance systems) such as lane keeping assist and collision mitigation systems which are fitted to these new electric vans, but which drivers may not have experienced before with older diesel vans.


Greg Ford, Head of Corporate at RED, said:

“This new breed of larger electric vans present a challenge to drivers and we believe that companies should acknowledge that and ensure their drivers receive some basic introductory training to ensure road safety.


“While the transition from an ICE van to an EV one may not appear to be significant, there are key differences which could catch out an unaware driver. One of the main ones to look out for is regenerative braking, which slows the vehicle when the driver lifts off the accelerator – this instant retardation force could be an issue on faster roads.


“e-LCVs also accelerate much more quickly than traditional diesel vans, so again drivers need to be familiar with the performance of the vehicle away from traffic.


“Finally, because e-LCVs are so quiet, drivers need to be trained on their hazard awareness skills – especially around pedestrians who may step out into the road without hearing a vehicle approaching.”


As well as physical training, RED is also offering companies an online training module through its Safety First risk management platform.


For more information on RED Corporate Driver Training’s range of training courses and risk management solutions, visit https://www.reddrivingschool.com/driver-risk-management/

Further information
Colin Paterson, Head of Marketing
colin.paterson@redtraining.com
07774 828942

About RED Corporate Driver Training

RED Corporate Driver Training (CDT) is part of the Driving Success Group which also includes one of the UK’s largest multi-award-winning driving schools. The Corporate Driver Training part of the group specialises in the delivery of tailored programmes to reduce the road risks within organisations and improve the safety and efficiency of work-related driving, and has more than 35 years’ experience in service delivery for a wide range of clients including SMEs, not-for-profit and large multi-national organisations.


The business is a fully accredited DVSA (Driver and Vehicles Standards Agency) Fleet Training provider, and by training its own trainers, coaches and instructors for corporate and fleet training work, ensures that high standards of quality are applied consistently throughout the UK. RED CDT is accredited to ISO standards: 9001, 27001,14001 and 18001 and has won many business awards for its dedication to customer service. Operating from a specialist training facility at Donington Park race circuit gives clients access to a range of classroom, workshop and off-road driving settings.