With fuel prices at a record high, we ask what is the most economical school minibus, diesel, hybrid or electric? At time of writing the average litre of Diesel is £1.90 to £2.00 (an increase of 40% since the USA and Iran went to war). Whether this is a long term rise or not, it once again raises the question of which powertrain should you choose for your school Minibus.
At Minibus World we have been manufacturing school Minibuses for nearly 20 years, so we know a thing or two about which vehicles our clients prefer. However, with more choice than ever, are times changing?
Diesel – traditionally the choice for 9-17 seat Minibuses, diesel provides a combination of power, reliability, value and economy. In recent years Diesel has been seen as the ‘bad boy’ of the fuel world, but modern engines can help dispel that. Our best selling Minibus which is based on the Peugeot Boxer can deliver over 40mpg in certain specifications and 165g/km of CO2 emissions. It’s Euro 6d compliant and uses Ad-Blu.
Hybrid – combines a battery for short journeys and a petrol engine for longer distance. Our favourite is the Ford Tourneo PHEV (Plug in Hybrid Electric Vehicle which has seating for 9 (including driver) and a 32 mile electric only range. Because of the hybrid configuration the CO2 emissions are 40-47g/km, which means lower vehicle tax.
Electric – electric cars might be the norm, but electric Minibuses are relatively new to the market. Vehicles from Ford, Renault and Maxus offer seating from 9 to 16 in a zero emissions vehicle. Charging networks continue to expand, but can be patchy and expensive in some areas.
The most economical school Minibus will be dictated by the mileage you cover, type of journey undertaken and type of finance required. So which one works for you?
Diesel – the traditional choice. For long journeys and years of reliability, it is the logical purchase. Strong residual values mean depreciation is low, however, regular servicing and maintenance is necessary if covering large mileage. Low emissions zones and road tax can drive up running costs and with Diesel prices as they are, currently running a Minibus is expensive. But we do expect fuel prices to fall in the future.
Hybrid – for short journeys and occasional long distance a hybrid can be a perfect solution. Charge the battery at your school for lower energy costs, maximise battery usage and a hybrid is a perfect partner. However, if you are doing regular long journeys your overall economy will reduce.
Electric – built for short journeys in low emissions areas, a fully electric Minibus is built for the city. Quiet, clean and nippy, an electric Minibus is perfect for the school run. On the downside, range is not huge as battery development continues and depreciation can be high as the market is still unsure. Get a used bargain or strike a contract hire deal.
The team at Minibus World are here to help. Information, a test drive or even a conversation with an existing client to help you decide. Get in touch and we’ll be happy to provide more knowledge to help you source the perfect Minibus.
📞 01782 444 289
📩 info@cvmworld.co.uk
🌐 www.minibus-online.co.uk