Used Hybrid Vans For Sale

Hybrid vans for sale with heycar

Not too long ago, hybrid vans weren't really a thing. If you were shopping for a used van, then diesel was the default, – hybrid power generally wasn't available, and when it was was it was expensive. But times have changed. Fuel prices have rocketed, cities have introduced Clean Air Zones, and businesses are under more pressure to reduce emissions. As a result, demand for hybrid and electric vans has grown rapidly.

Why buy a used hybrid van?

While many van manufacturers – including Citroen, Peugeot, and Vauxhall – have jumped straight into full electric vans, hybrids offer a useful middle ground. Most hybrid vans are plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), which means they can drive for short distances on electric power alone. That makes them great for city deliveries or urban commutes.

At the same time, they offer the reassurance of a petrol engine for longer trips, removing the need to plan around charging stops or worry about range limitations as you might with pure electric. This flexibility makes hybrid vans ideal for businesses that operate both in town and on longer routes. They’re also typically smoother and quieter to drive than diesel vans, and can be more fuel-efficient in mixed-use conditions.

What are the best makes and models of used hybrid van?

There aren't a huge number of hybrid vans on the used market yet, but that's changing. One of the most widely available and well-proven options is the Ford Transit Custom plug-in hybrid, which offers around 30 miles of electric range a 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine for longer runs. Another solid choice is the LEVC VN5, which offers more than 60 miles of electric range and has a petrol engine that as a generator rather than directly powering the wheels. While not technically a van from the ground up, the Mitsubishi Outlander Commercial is worth a look. It's based on an SUV but with the rear seats removed, making it an efficient solution for lighter van duties.

What should I look for when buying a used hybrid van? 

Used hybrid vans are still relatively rare, but they seem to be generally reliable. Even so, it’s worth doing your homework to ensure a hybrid fits your needs. Hybrid vans are usually more expensive to buy than equivalent petrol or diesel models, so be sure you can take advantage of their fuel-saving potential.

That usually means regular access to a charging point (ideally at home or work) to make the most of their electric-only range. If you’re not charging regularly, you won’t save much fuel, and a conventional petrol or diesel van might make more sense.

Also, check the payload and towing capacity of any hybrid van you’re considering. These are often lower than their diesel counterparts, so make sure the model you're considering can handle the kind of loads you need it to.

If a hybrid van isn't quite right for you, check out our range of used MPVs for sale, while we've also got 1000s of used vans for sale to suit all budgets.