Webfleet has set a new Guinness World Record for the greatest distance ever travelled by an electric van on a single charge.

(L-R) Glenn Pollard, Guiness World Records adjudicator, with Sam Clarke, Fergal McGrath and Kevin Booker

Its new record of 311 miles smashes the previous 258.85 miles set in the USA – and shows how fleets can maximise the long-range capabilities of today’s electric vans with the help of latest technologies and eco-driving skills.

The record-breaking feat (see footage here) was achieved by Webfleet-sponsored drivers Kevin Booker, Sam Clarke and Fergal McGrath in a Fiat E-Scudo, fitted with energy-efficient Bridgestone Duravis tyres.

Independently verified EV data and camera footage from Webfleet revealed that the compact van, which features a 75kWh battery and an official WLTP range of 205 miles, averaged 4.5 miles per kilowatt hour (kWh) on a circular route across Cambridgeshire, Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire.

The journey took 13 hours and nine minutes during daylight hours. The E-Scudo was not modified in any way and the route combined a mix of urban and rural roads to reflect ‘real-world’ conditions.

The E-Scudo was specifically chosen for the challenge thanks to its best-in-class range and comfort-first design, which uses features such as a car-like driving position and top-level soundproofing, to minimise jolts and vibrations.

Beverley Wise, Webfleet regional director for Bridgestone Mobility Solutions, said the achievement was testimony to the determination and technological ingenuity of all those involved.

“The record demonstrates not only the capabilities of electric vans and advanced Bridgestone tyre technology for businesses and urban mobility, but also the impact that drivers can have on electric vehicle energy consumption.”

Damien Dally, managing director of Fiat UK, added: “We are delighted that the Fiat E-Scudo has registered its first ever Guinness World Records title, and an impressive one at that as the furthest distance ever travelled by a van on a single charge.

“E-Scudo already has a range of 205 miles, which is perfect for businesses wanting to make the switch to electric, and this shows when driven efficiently just how much further the van can go beyond its WLTP range.”

The record also shows how connected EV data plays a vital role in electrifying mobility, enabling business fleets to monitor driver behaviour.

It’s the latest economy world record to be amassed by Volta Trucks’ Fergal McGrath and EV and sustainability consultant Kevin Booker. The duo now hold six and four driving related Guinness World Records titles respectively. Meanwhile, Sam Clarke, CVO at Gridserve, has now successfully completed his first.

McGrath said: “Trucks and vans are predominantly powered by diesel and so it is important that the transition to pure electric with zero tailpipe emissions is as smooth as possible. By achieving this Guinness World Records title, we are hoping to demonstrate that pure electric commercial vehicles can meet and exceed customer requirements in the real-world, especially in large towns and cities.”

The AA – which provided official adjudication and EV support services for the record attempt – said the achievement showed what’s possible in terms of eLCV range and how drivers can impact range.

Edmund King, AA president, added: “The achievement is all the more impressive being conducted in a van. We know range anxiety is a concern for some drivers, so demonstrating how far electric vehicles can run on one charge is hugely positive.

“We’re proud to be the number one provider of EV support services for drivers, helping individuals and fleets alike embrace electrification with confidence, so it was fantastic to play our part in this World Record achievement.”