Spectacular growth in UK van mileage

A review of the van sector has revealed incredible growth. Over the past decade, the UK has experienced a staggering 35 per cent increase in van traffic, resulting in a record-breaking 57.5 billion vehicle miles travelled by vans in 2022. For context, that’s like circling the globe an astounding 2.3 million times, or once every 15 seconds. Research conducted by Go.Compare Van Insurance shows that the average van owner travels 12,500 miles over the year, emphasising van drivers’ significant role in the country’s transportation network. The study raises questions about the impact this record-breaking mileage has on the condition of the average van.

Road traffic numbers dipped in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, but vans quickly bounced back to exceed pre-pandemic traffic levels. At the end of December 2022, there were a total of 4.62 million LGVs on the roads. Newly licensed vans also jumped by 82,000 last year, reflecting a 1.8 per cent increase compared to 2021 and a substantial 6.3 per cent rise from 2020.

Tom Banks, motoring expert at Go.Compare, said: “Van usage has notably increased in the last year alone, highlighting the pivotal role van drivers play in our daily routines. However, it’s vital that van owners recognise that higher mileage usually results in more wear and tear, which can impact a vehicle’s condition over time.

“Regular maintenance, timely servicing and anticipating potential repairs becomes crucial to ensure a van goes the distance. Conducting routine checks on brakes, tyres and engine health, coupled with proactive care, can significantly extend the lifespan of a vehicle, ensuring it remains reliable for the long haul.

”Van owners are also encouraged to estimate their mileage as accurately as possible and compare policies to find an insurance plan that best suits their needs. This ensures their vehicle is covered for any potential damage and could ultimately help with minimising unexpected costs.”

The skyrocketing van mileage figures follow reports that van tyre wear rates are becoming increasingly dangerous.