Business car trends: What companies really want in 2025
Back to 'Expert guides'From tradespeople to executives, choosing the right vehicle isn’t just about looks: it’s about reliability, efficiency, and meeting the specific demands of an industry. So, what are businesses actually looking for in 2025?
We analysed over 100 vehicle needs for different industries from articles online. Then, we used our own business leasing enquiry data to uncover what really matters when picking the perfect business vehicle.
The most popular business vehicles
Business leasing data from the last year reveals clear trends in vehicle choices, driven by sustainability goals, practicality, and industry-specific needs.
While electric vehicles continue to gain traction, many businesses still rely on SUVs, premium executive cars, and work-ready vans. So, which vehicles had the most business leasing enquiries last year?
More than half of business vehicle enquiries are for EVs
Electric vehicles are becoming an increasingly attractive option for businesses. Our data shows more than half (52%) of business vehicle enquiries are for EV models. The four most popular business vehicles in 2024 are all electric, with the Lotus Eletre leading the way with the most enquiries.
But what’s causing the increase in electric vehicle enquiries for businesses? Mike Fazal, CEO at Leasing.com, says: “The rise in business EV enquiries reflects a broader shift driven by cost efficiency, sustainability goals, and regulatory changes. With more cities introducing low-emission zones, businesses are proactively switching to electric fleets to avoid charges and future-proof their operations.
“Government incentives and lower BiK tax rates are making EVs more attractive, but businesses are also seeing the long-term savings in running costs and maintenance. As technology improves and charging networks expand, we expect even more businesses to accelerate their shift to electric - ensuring they stay ahead of regulations while boosting their sustainability credentials.”
SUVs make up 60% of business vehicle enquiries
The versatility of SUVs keeps them in high demand among business users and makes them the most popular body type for businesses in 2024. The Nissan Qashqai and Volkswagen Tiguan continue to be top choices for those who need a balance of efficiency, and storage capacity.
Whether it’s for property professionals, veterinarians, or company directors frequently travelling between locations, SUVs provide the space, safety, and performance needed for a seamless workday on the road.
The rise of electric vans
All three of our popular business vans had an electric powertrain option, with just one of the vans being exclusively electric. The rise of electric vans shows a clear shift towards more sustainable commercial transport. While diesel vans have traditionally dominated commercial fleets, many businesses are now shifting towards electric models; not just for sustainability, but for cost savings and operational efficiency.
For high-mileage businesses, the reduced maintenance costs of electric powertrains are another key advantage. Not to mention, today’s electric vehicles have vastly improved in range, and charging times making them a no-brainer for a lot of companies.
Mike says: “Leasing plays a crucial role here. Many businesses are still uncertain about transitioning to electric, but leasing allows them to trial electric vans without committing to outright ownership. This flexibility is key as technology continues to evolve, ensuring businesses can adapt without financial risk. As manufacturers ramp up production and improve payload capacities, electric vans will become the default choice for urban fleets within the next few years."
What do businesses need in a vehicle?
florist doesn’t have the same priorities as a property manager. A vet covering rural areas needs something very different from a sales rep dashing between city meetings. Choosing the right business vehicle isn’t just about preference - it’s about practicality, efficiency, and meeting the unique demands of the job.
To understand what businesses really need from their vehicles, we analysed over 100 vehicle needs for businesses from online articles. We then compared these insights with real-world leasing enquiry data from the last year, and ranked the most popular business vehicles on a scale of 1-5 to show how well they meet each business need, with 5 being the best.
Tradespeople (Electricians, Plumbers, Builders)
For tradespeople, a van isn’t just transport - it’s a mobile workshop. They need plenty of cargo space for tools and materials, rugged reliability for long-term use, and the ability to handle heavy loads. Fuel efficiency is also a key factor, given the high mileage many tradespeople cover each year.
The Nissan Townstar comes out on top for tradies
The Nissan Townstar ranks 4.25 out of 5 for how well it meets the needs of trade businesses thanks to cargo space and electric powertrain options. For those wanting to make the shift to the electric, the Volkswagen ID. Buzz is a great option and ranks 3.5 out of 5.
The Ford Ranger remains a top choice for large loads and robustness, with features specifically designed for worksite use. The vehicle ranks 3.5 out of 5 for meeting tradie needs.
Although the Ford Transit Custom wasn’t one of the most popular business cars it remains a staple for its durability and load space, while the VW Transporter is favoured for its solid build.
Couriers and delivery services
The Renault Kangoo and VW ID. Buzz gain top marks for couriers
The Renault Kangoo is a popular choice for shorter routes, offering a compact size with practical storage. Its size means it's easy to drive and nimble around corners - ideal for tricky estates. This car ranks 5 out of 5 for courier suitability. However, for larger loads the Volkswagen ID. Buzz provides all the benefits of an electric vehicle without compromising on range or load capacity. This vehicle also ranks 5 out of 5 for couriers.
Other vehicles such as the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter remain a go-to for larger delivery fleets, thanks to its reliability and spacious cargo area. Meanwhile, businesses looking to future-proof their fleet increasingly turn to the Ford E-Transit.
Property and sales professionals
Image matters in industries like estate agency, sales, and consultancy. Professionals in these fields need a stylish yet practical vehicle that reflects their brand while being comfortable enough for long-distance travel. Efficiency is also key, particularly for those driving between multiple client locations daily.
Sealing the deal: The BMW iX wins for property
The BMW iX scores top marks, 4.5 out of 5 for being the most suitable for property and sales professionals, thanks to its executive styling, comfort, and efficiency with an all-electric powertrain. The Polestar 2 is another top choice, ranking 4 out of 5, appealing to those looking for a premium electric car.
For long-distance travel a diesel or PHEV engine might be more suitable, which is why the BMW 3 Series is a top contender, ranking 4 out of 5.
Veterinary and agricultural services
Vets and agricultural workers operate in challenging environments, from muddy farm tracks to remote rural roads. They need all-weather reliability and the ability to tackle rough terrain, all while maintaining decent fuel economy for long-distance work.
Why the Ford Ranger is the vet’s best friend
The Ford Ranger scores 5 out of 5 for veterinary and agricultural services. This pick-up provides off-road capability and plenty of cargo space, which makes it an ideal fit. The Land Rover Defender is another solid choice; it excels at off-road driving but smaller cargo space means it ranks 4 out of 5.
Healthcare and medical services
Healthcare professionals, including GPs, district nurses, and home care providers, require compact, economical vehicles for frequent city visits and patient appointments. Low emissions and good fuel efficiency are essential, especially in congestion charge zones.
The Nissan Qashqai is the go-to for medical services
The Nissan Qashqai, ranks 5 out of 5 for suitability. This vehicle stands out for its affordability, fuel economy, and ease of parking - ideal for navigating busy urban areas.
The VW Polo, and Hyundai i10 make a good fit too; their hybrid and petrol powertrains also help healthcare workers reduce running costs without compromising on range.
Methodology
We analysed articles such as “best vehicles for [industry]” for various industries and business types to uncover the vehicle needs for each business. We then looked at business leasing enquiry data to find out the most popular business vehicles, which are:
| Make & Model | % of business lease enquiries 2024 |
| Lotus Eletre | 4.00% |
| BMW Ix | 3.20% |
| Tesla Model Y | 3.10% |
| BMW I5 | 3.00% |
| Ford Ranger | 2.90% |
| Polestar 2 | 2.60% |
| Volkswagen Id. Buzz | 2.60% |
| Land Rover Defender | 2.40% |
| Land Rover Range Rover Velar | 2.10% |
| Nissan Townstar | 1.90% |
| Land Rover Range Rover Evoque | 1.90% |
| Land Rover Rover Sport | 1.70% |
| Volkswagen Tiguan | 1.60% |
| Volkswagen Amarok | 1.60% |
| BMW 3 Series | 1.50% |
| Nissan Qashqai | 1.40% |
| Audi Q4 | 1.30% |
| Renault Kangoo | 1.30% |
| Volvo XC40 | 1.30% |
| Audi Q5 | 1.30% |
