New research shows UK van drivers are regularly subjected to all kinds of abuse – and many put it down to negative stereotypes
Two fifths of van drivers say they are regularly subjected to abuse from other motorists. A survey of 1,000 adults who drive a van revealed that they have been sworn at, received obscene gestures, and even faced threats of physical violence in the past year.
A whopping 79 per cent believe this is due to how van drivers are viewed by the general public, with nearly half insisting their reputation as poor drivers or catcallers is unfair. The research found that 73 per cent feel they are misunderstood by the general public as a van driver – a figure that rises to 78 per cent among electric van drivers.
Over half argue they are actually more skilled than many other road users because driving a van presents more challenges than a standard car. Moreover, 67 per cent consciously strive to be considerate of other drivers and make sure to let other motorists merge or pedestrians cross the road.
Nicola Dobson, managing director of PEUGEOT UK, which commissioned the research, said: “It’s time for the outdated stereotypes of van drivers to be re-evaluated. We know that the majority of van drivers take pride in their vehicle and are among the most skilled and considerate drivers on the road.”
The most common stereotypes include ‘aggressive behaviour’ (46 per cent), ‘poor driving’ (43 per cent), and ‘having dirty or untidy vehicles’ (35 per cent).
Despite the stereotype of being messy, nearly all (96 per cent) van drivers stated that keeping their vehicle clean and well-maintained is crucial to them, with 73 per cent cleaning it at least once a week.
Electric van drivers are even more meticulous, with 89 per cent tidying up their vehicle at least once a week. It was also disclosed that 86 per cent believe it would reflect poorly on them if they were to arrive at work in a grubby van.
The attention to detail doesn’t just stop at looks, as 66 per cent also check for maintenance issues more than once a week, with 70 per cent stating safety is their primary motivation for looking after their transport.
Over six in 10 (63 per cent) confessed that public opinion influences their driving, with a whopping 88 per cent feeling compelled to drive more cautiously due to others’ perceptions, according to a study conducted by OnePoll.
The survey revealed that 71 per cent feel the need to justify their driving skills when they get behind the wheel of their van.
In contrast, 64 per cent of electric van drivers believe they are viewed more favourably since switching from their petrol or diesel van, while 56 per cent say they receive positive reactions when charging their van in public places.
This research comes on the heels of the Government’s decision to extend the plug-in van grant for electric vans until 2027 – a scheme that the PEUGEOT E-PARTNER, E-EXPERT and E-BOXER all qualify for.
Nicola Dobson added: “As a leader in the electric van market with three fully electric models, it’s encouraging to see electric van drivers reporting a positive shift in perceptions since going electric.
“We are committed to supporting van drivers and promoting a more positive experience for them on the UK’s roads.”