In the constant search to find out how fleets are handling the switch to electric vehicles I read a lot of reports and websites. Recently I found one from Athlon Mobility Services which contained some really great tips and hints for Fleet Managers and Sustainability Managers.
Athlon acknowledges that with all the current excitement about electric vehicles, and the impending government regulations in Europe, it’s important not to panic and start buying zero emission cars without understanding how they will work in your organisation.
They have provided this list of seven questions that can help develop a framework for a transition to EVs.
- Have you looked in detail at the regulatory landscape?
- Is there existing pressure within your business to decarbonise or become more sustainable?
- Do you have a good understanding of your existing fleet, replacement cycles, associated costs and supplier base?
- Do you understand the habits and behaviours of your drivers?
- Have you already identified employees who are keen to make the switch?
- Have you checked what impacts a switch to EVs might have on other parts of the business?
- Are there any other upgrades or development plans happening around the business which could align with an electrification strategy?
The report also outlines some of the hurdles you’ll face when making the switch such as the number and the location of charging stations, access to a good power supply and the culture with the business towards sustainability. These are common challenges that may cause your business to delay buying electric vehicles, however they can be overcome with some research and good communication.
The report also suggests there will be some benefits to your business from making the switch:
- More sustainable business
- Reduce your costs
- Enhance your reputation
- Stay competitive
- improve satisfaction and attract talent
- Generate new revenue streams
Knowing where to start is often the hardest part with a project this large. When talking to Fleet EV News, Australian Fleet Managers that have already started the journey recommend buying 1-5 vehicles as a test project before jumping in 100%. They have all learnt invaluable lessons from the first batch of EVs that will save time and money as they continue to add more.
Athlon have provided these tip on setting up an EV trial:
- If you are using pure EVs in your trial, begin with a small number of vehicles and test them in a range of real-world situations.
- Consider your charging needs. Do you need to install workplace chargers or can your trial get started with other forms of charging first? (eg. public or home-based solutions)
- Pick the right candidates, those that are likely to understand the benefits of a switch to EV and are keen to fully commit to the trial.
- Try to involve someone high up in the business leadership as this will set a good example to others and create a strong advocate when steering the wider business strategy.
- Use any learnings from the trial to support development of a full business case.
- Communicate progress and learnings with the wider company.
