As Fleet Managers prepare to lead their organisations through the electric vehicle (EV) transition, a critical task will be managing internal change – especially addressing staff concerns that can become barriers to adoption. The latest NRMA Insurance research report, Changing Gears: Exploring the Future of Battery Safety, Sustainability, and Electric Vehicle Repairs, offers valuable insights into the consumer mindset that can help fleet leaders understand and engage their drivers more effectively.
Sustainability: Valued, But Not at Any Cost
The report reveals that while 60% of Australians say sustainability is important to them, only 38% are willing to pay more for greener alternatives. This “value-action gap” suggests that for many employees, the environmental argument won’t be persuasive unless it’s paired with a clear demonstration of value.
When engaging staff, highlight the total cost of ownership benefits of EVs – particularly lower fuel and maintenance costs. According to Transport for NSW, maintenance savings can be as high as 40% compared to petrol vehicles. But many drivers don’t know this: 46% of survey respondents weren’t sure whether EVs were cheaper to run than traditional vehicles.
Tip for Fleet Managers: During engagement sessions, provide side-by-side comparisons of whole-of-life costs. Use real examples from your own operations where possible to build trust.
Repairs and Maintenance: A Confidence Gap
NRMA Insurance’s report found that 82% of Australians recognise that EVs have different servicing needs, but 62% of current EV owners are concerned about the lack of qualified mechanics locally. A huge 90% said they want their insurer to offer a dedicated EV repair network.
For fleet operations, this concern is amplified – a vehicle off the road due to repair delays directly impacts service delivery.
Tip for Fleet Managers: Address this head-on. Share your support arrangements – such as partnerships with certified repairers – and reassure staff about access to fast, safe repairs. Consider inviting your repair partner or insurer to speak during information sessions.
Battery Safety: Misconceptions Persist
Battery fires remain a top fear, despite only 10 recorded EV battery fires in registered road vehicles across Australia. Yet 69% of Australians still fear EVs catching fire or exploding during charging. This concern is compounded by confusion between certified EVs and incidents involving poorly regulated e-scooter or e-bike batteries.
There is also strong support for more education: 65% want better information on safe charging, and 79% want battery health monitoring tools.
Tip for Fleet Managers: Reinforce the robust safety protocols your organisation uses, such as manufacturer-approved chargers and garage smoke detectors. Offer training on battery care and provide access to battery health reports, especially as vehicles age.
Recycling and Environmental Impact: Room to Grow
While EVs are seen as environmentally preferable, 68% of Australians remain concerned about battery recycling and disposal. Only 30% believe EV batteries can be reused or recycled, and just 31% would consider using a recycled battery.
At the same time, 72% support clear government and industry recycling processes.
Tip for Fleet Managers: Communicate your end-of-life vehicle processes clearly. Staff want to know that their vehicle won’t become an environmental problem. If you’re partnering with battery recyclers or planning to reuse vehicles through novated leasing, make that known.
Cost and Policy Signals: Key to Widening Support
Cost remains the number one barrier for those who haven’t considered an EV. Lower electricity prices (45%) and more affordable EV models (40%) are the most cited factors that could change their mind. Meanwhile, current EV owners overwhelmingly support government incentives, with 81% backing financial assistance to buyers and 59% wanting support for manufacturers to reduce prices.
For Fleet Managers tasked with justifying the investment to both finance teams and staff, the message is clear – financial incentives work, and confidence builds with access to affordable vehicles and infrastructure.
Education and Communication: Trusted Voices Matter
When it comes to EV information, Australians place the most trust in motoring associations (58%) and mechanics (56%). This is important context when planning internal education programs.
Tip for Fleet Managers: Bring in external experts to boost credibility – NRMA Insurance, RACV, independent mechanics or repairers can make the message stick. Video content or Q\&A sessions with local workshops can also build confidence.
Summary for Fleet Decision Makers
The NRMA Insurance report makes it clear: transitioning to EVs isn’t just a technology shift – it’s a human change management challenge. For Fleet Managers, the opportunity lies in:
- Demonstrating value: Make the business case clear in personal terms – especially cost savings and performance parity.
- Reducing anxiety: Reassure drivers on repair access, battery safety, and EV charging infrastructure.
- Boosting trust: Use recognised experts and evidence-based communication to bridge the knowledge gap.
- Showing sustainability in action: Share your recycling, battery repurposing, and emission reduction plans.
As organisations move to reduce their emissions and electrify their fleets, it’s the voices of drivers that will make or break the rollout. Fleet Managers can use these insights to bring staff on the journey – not just as passengers, but as confident and committed EV drivers.
