Vanaways and Electric Van Man are combining their expertise to support the continued growth of the electric commercial vehicle market, with a particular focus on strengthening the used electric van sector.
Paul Kirby, better known across the industry as Electric Van Man, recently met with Chris Jakeways, director at Vanaways, to discuss how the two businesses can support each other and share knowledge across the commercial vehicle industry. Paul has spent years helping fleets and businesses understand the realities of electric vans through honest, objective and benefit focused reviews and advice. His approach is centred on giving customers the information they need to make the right decision for their business, whether that means switching to electric now or waiting until the time is right.
Having seen the growth of Vanaways over the past 10 years, Paul believes there is plenty to learn from Chris and the team. In particular, he highlights Vanaways’ technology led, future focused approach as something he believes is key to building a successful modern business.
‘Over the last 10 years Chris has built an amazingly effective business and has always leaned into technology,’ said Paul. ‘Building the business on a future focused platform is absolutely the way to go, and that is one big thing I have taken away.’
As Vanaways continues to grow its electric commercial vehicle offering, the need for a strong and reliable used market is also increasing. Part exchanges will play an important role in creating a healthy supply of quality used electric vans, providing more choice for businesses looking to make the transition. Paul sees Electric Van Man playing an important role in that opportunity, with the businesses able to align their values and expertise to support customers across both the new and used sectors.
‘That iis where Electric Van Man comes in,’ Paul added. ‘We are able to align ourselves and support the values that Vanaways offers its clients, helping to create a robust market for both the new and used sectors.’
Chris Jakeways said the relationship brings together a significant amount of knowledge and experience across the commercial vehicle industry, creating an opportunity to help electric vans move further into the mainstream.
‘We are really pleased to be supporting Paul and Electric Van Man,’ said Chris. ‘There is a huge amount of knowledge and experience between us, and we see a real opportunity to support the market as electric vans move further into the mainstream. The used market will become increasingly important, and we are excited to play our part in helping businesses understand and access these vehicles.’
By supporting each other and combining Vanaways’ commercial vehicle expertise with Electric Van Man’s specialist EV knowledge, the businesses aim to strengthen both the new and used markets, provide customers with better information and help move the electric van sector forward. For Paul, the relationship also reflects the wider values behind Electric Van Man. As the business grows, there is an ambition to create training, development and employment opportunities for people who may otherwise find themselves on the edges of the workforce, helping to give others the opportunities that played an important role in Paul’s own journey.
Both businesses see the relationship as an opportunity to continue learning from each other while helping create a more robust and accessible electric van market.