The Green Insurer
Younger drivers are embracing vans over cars
By Paul Baxter, 10th September 2024
Category: Car insurance
Vans are no longer exclusively the vehicle of choice for trades. New research conducted by ourselves has shown that younger drivers are increasingly choosing vans over traditional cars for general use. In fact, almost one in four drivers aged 25 to 34 are considering purchasing a van instead of a car, signalling a growing shift in vehicle preferences among younger generations.
Traditionally associated with business and trades, vans are now gaining popularity for personal use, with over a third (36%) of current van owners using them solely for leisure and domestic activities rather than work. This shift highlights how versatile vans have become, appealing to a broader range of users.
The study also showed that 29% of van owners use their vehicle for both work and leisure, while 35% still use it purely for business purposes. However, it’s not just young people making the switch – roughly one in 12 drivers overall are considering buying a van instead of a car, with interest levels fairly equal between men and women.
So, what’s driving this trend? According to our survey, 71% of respondents said the primary reason for choosing a van was the extra space, making it ideal for carrying larger items such as surfboards, camping gear, or bicycles. The ability to use vans for both work and family activities was another key factor (54%), followed by the capacity to carry more passengers (49%) and the flexibility to adapt the interior space (41%).
We recently launched the UK’s first van insurance policies offering carbon offsetting for all driving, alongside rewards for green driving. This is particularly relevant in an era where eco-conscious driving is on the rise, and people are looking for more sustainable ways to travel.
With our insurance policies covering all types of van usage—whether for social, commuting, or business purposes—drivers have more flexibility than ever to make the switch to a van. As the “van life” movement gains momentum, the versatility and practicality of vans continue to attract a range of different motorists.