As organisations across the globe strive to reduce their environmental impact, fleet electrification has emerged as a core strategy. To gain valuable insights into this growing trend, Fleet World conducted an extensive EV survey in collaboration with E.ON and sponsored by Mazda, Ogilvie Fleet, and Webfleet. This survey aimed to understand the experiences of decision-makers and the shape of their electrification plans. In this article, we will explore the key findings from the survey and delve into how Webfleet, a leading provider of EV fleet management solutions, can assist businesses in overcoming the challenges associated with electrification.
The Importance of Net Zero Strategies in Fleet Management
Embracing Net Zero: A Divide Between Large and Small Businesses
The survey revealed that almost three-quarters of the respondents (73.2%) already have a decarbonisation strategy in place or under development. However, there is a notable divide between large and small businesses. Small businesses were nearly four times more likely to have no electric vehicles in their fleet (48.1%) compared to large businesses (12.8%). Additionally, less than half of small businesses had a Net Zero strategy. This highlights the need for comprehensive support and solutions tailored to the unique challenges faced by smaller organisations.
Electrification Challenges: Cars vs Vans
While the government has set ambitious targets for Net Zero carbon policies, the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) poses different challenges for cars and vans. Vehicle manufacturers face the first Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate in 2024, with progressively higher electric vehicle registration targets each year. However, the adoption of electric vans has stagnated, with only 5.5% of registrations being battery-powered. This presents an opportunity for businesses to focus on electrifying their van fleets and contribute to a greener future.
The Green Revival of Company Cars
CO2 Emission Reduction as a Motivating Factor
Reducing CO2 emissions emerged as the primary motivating factor for fleet electrification, with 79.7% of respondents prioritising this goal. In comparison, fuel costs (49.2%) and corporate image (43.8%) ranked second and third, respectively. However, the motivations varied among small and large organisations. Smaller businesses tended to focus more on reducing tax and fuel costs, highlighting the importance of tailored solutions to meet their specific needs.
Differing Demands: Small vs Large Organisations
The survey indicated that small businesses were almost four times more likely to have no electric vehicles in their fleet compared to large businesses. Furthermore, small businesses were less likely to have a Net Zero strategy in place. This underscores the importance of providing comprehensive support and guidance to smaller organisations, enabling them to navigate the challenges of electrification and embrace sustainable practices.
Charging Solutions for Cars and Vans
The Power of Home Charging for Electric Cars
One of the operational differences of electric vehicles is the ability to charge them almost anywhere with a power supply. The survey highlighted the significance of home charging for fleets with electric cars, supported by access to public charge points. To facilitate widespread adoption, businesses need seamless solutions that enable drivers to quickly plug in and pay. Webfleet’s expertise in EV fleet management can help businesses overcome the challenges associated with home charging, ensuring a smooth and efficient charging experience for drivers.
Workplace Chargers for Electric Vans
In contrast to electric cars, fleets operating vans have primarily installed workplace chargers to support their electrification efforts. However, only half of these fleets have made these chargers available to other drivers. This highlights the need for businesses to expand access to workplace chargers and explore innovative solutions that support the growing demand for electric vans. Webfleet offers comprehensive solutions for workplace charging, ensuring that businesses can effectively manage and optimise their electric van fleets.
Future Charging Needs: Away from the Workplace
Looking towards the future, a significant majority of respondents (61.7%) expect drivers to charge their vehicles away from the workplace, such as at home or using public networks. While half of the businesses reimburse drivers for home charging at the HMRC-approved advisory electric rate (AER), others have implemented their own per-mile rate or automated solutions. This highlights the importance of flexible and versatile charging options to accommodate the diverse needs of drivers. Webfleet’s advanced charging solutions can facilitate seamless charging experiences, whether at home or on the go, ensuring that businesses can adapt to evolving charging needs.
The Role of Fleet Managers in EV Adoption
Procuring Charge points: Fleet Managers as Key Players
The survey revealed that 92.1% of respondents have procured their own charge points, with fleet managers playing a pivotal role in this process. Fleet managers are responsible for selecting workplace charge points, prioritising charging speed and maximising vehicle downtime for efficient charging. Webfleet recognises the crucial role of fleet managers in successful EV adoption and offers robust fleet management solutions that streamline charging operations and optimise fleet efficiency.
Prioritising Charging Speed and Vehicle Downtime
Fleet managers understand the importance of charging speed and vehicle downtime in maximizing fleet productivity. By selecting workplace charge points that offer fast charging capabilities and strategically utilising vehicle downtime for charging, businesses can ensure optimal fleet performance. Webfleet’s advanced fleet management solutions provide real-time insights and intelligent routing options, enabling fleet managers to optimise charging schedules and minimise vehicle downtime.
Seeking Specialist Support for EV Deployment
New Responsibilities for Fleet Operators
The deployment of electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) introduces new responsibilities for fleet operators. While traditional fuel stations may not be relevant, the installation and management of workplace charge points become essential. The survey highlighted that only half of the respondents believed they had enough workplace charge points, and many found the installation process challenging. To bridge this knowledge gap, businesses should seek support from specialists such as energy companies and charge point suppliers. Webfleet offers comprehensive support and expertise in EV fleet management, ensuring a smooth transition to electrification.
Financial Support and Incentives for Charge points
Implementing workplace charge points can be a substantial investment for businesses. The survey revealed that most fleets (82.1%) choose to pay for charge points upfront rather than opt for loans or leases. However, financial support and incentives are available to facilitate the adoption of charge points. These include a 100% first-year allowance for charge points, Benefit-in-Kind exemptions for installing home charging equipment, and grant funding for workplace units. Webfleet can guide businesses through the financial landscape, helping them leverage available incentives and make informed decisions.
Harnessing Data for Effective EV Management
The Importance of Recording Charging Data
Successful EV fleet management relies on data-driven insights. The survey highlighted that 71.2% of fleets are recording data about how vehicles are charged. This figure rises to 79.1% for organizations with a Net Zero target and 82.3% for those with electric vans. Collecting data on costs, charging patterns, and carbon footprint enables businesses to identify opportunities for improvement and make informed decisions. Webfleet’s advanced telematics solutions provide comprehensive data analytics capabilities, empowering businesses to optimise their EV fleets.
Tracking Costs and Carbon Footprint
Among the data collected by fleets, cost of charging emerged as the most common information tracked (80.5% of respondents). However, tracking the carbon footprint of plugging-in lagged behind, with only 54.9% of fleets monitoring this metric. By monitoring and analysing both cost and carbon footprint data, businesses can gain a holistic understanding of the financial and environmental impact of their EV fleets. Webfleet’s data-driven solutions enable businesses to track and optimise these key metrics, driving efficiency and sustainability.
Addressing Challenges with Public Charge Points
Positive Impact of EV Adoption: Cost Reduction and Carbon Footprint
In reflecting on their experiences with electric vehicles, fleets reported during the survey significant cost reductions and carbon footprint reductions. However, challenges with public charging emerged as a recurring issue for businesses. Lack of public charge points and ease of use were perceived as significant obstacles. To overcome these challenges, businesses need seamless solutions that enable drivers to quickly access and pay for public charging. Webfleet offers innovative solutions, such as contactless payment options and roaming apps, ensuring a hassle-free charging experience for drivers.
Challenges with Public Charging: Ease and Availability
The survey outlined the need for seamless solutions to address the challenges associated with public charging. Contactless payments and roaming apps were identified as potential solutions to facilitate ease of use and enhance the availability of public charge points. Webfleet is committed to delivering seamless solutions that simplify the public charging experience, ensuring that drivers can access charging infrastructure effortlessly.
Webfleet: The Solution to Efficient EV Fleet Management
Webfleet’s Commitment to Sustainability and Productivity
Webfleet, a leading provider of EV fleet management solutions, is dedicated to helping businesses navigate the complexities of electrification and achieve their sustainability goals. With a focus on efficiency, fiscal responsibility, and environmentally minded measures, Webfleet offers a comprehensive suite of tools and services. From advanced telematics solutions to smart charging infrastructure, Webfleet empowers businesses to optimise their EV fleets, reduce costs, and minimise their environmental footprint.
Seamless Solutions for Charging Challenges
Webfleet understands the challenges faced by businesses in managing EV charging operations. To address these challenges, Webfleet offers seamless solutions that simplify the charging process, ensuring optimal efficiency and driver satisfaction. With advanced telematics and intelligent routing capabilities, businesses can optimise charging schedules, minimise vehicle downtime, and streamline operations. Webfleet’s expertise and commitment to innovation make it the ideal partner for businesses embarking on their electrification journey.
Conclusion
As organisations prioritise sustainability and embrace electric vehicle adoption, Webfleet stands ready to support businesses in their EV Fleet journey. From implementing efficient charging solutions to harnessing data for informed decision-making, Webfleet offers a comprehensive suite of tools and services tailored to the unique needs of businesses. By partnering with Webfleet, businesses can navigate the challenges of electrification, achieve their sustainability goals, and drive towards a greener future.
