NEWS
Although commercial Electric Vehicles (EVs) aka Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) have been around for some time now, there is still nervousness from some fleet managers about their viability as a converted vehicle such as a Welfare.
Well, if you are looking to replace your current diesel vehicle fleet, you are likely to be joining thousands of others who are considering the electric option. Whether it’s a Welfare Vehicle you require or a 9 Seat Crew Carrier, the decision to go electric is by far the best choice.
Here we look at just some of the many benefits experienced by electric fleet vehicle owners:
It almost goes without saying that moving over to an electric fleet vehicle has strong green credentials. Given that many fleet vehicles currently run on diesel, the reduction in carbon footprint is instant from the minute an EV vehicle takes to the road. The government is overwhelmingly in favour of promoting its commitment to the environment and encourages the uptake of electric vehicles by offering sweeping tax cuts which benefit both companies and employees.
While electric vehicles tend to be more expensive on average compared to their diesel or petrol counterparts, once the vehicle is purchased the savings tend to stack up very quickly. For fleet vehicles and vans running costs are kept low due to reduced service intervals and fewer moving parts to replace. Just consider the expensive replacement parts traditionally classed as consumables that will be consigned to history when cars become fully electric:
To name but a few…
Apart from cheaper servicing and greater green credentials, the transition from diesel or petrol to EV charging is a clear financial winner, especially if combined with other cost reductions available to fleet owners. Whether charging on the go, at the workplace or via a home charger, the cost of EV charging wins hands down, especially when alluring tax incentives are thrown into the mix.
Advancing technology means battery life is constantly being improved, allowing for more miles between each charge. As batteries develop, the potential for ‘range anxiety’ will become a thing of the past as most electric vehicles now have a range of up to 200 miles, with some Tesla models capable of up to 360 miles. This makes electric vans and cars a much more viable option for fleet vehicles where sales staff or service personnel need to keep on the move and are able to charge vehicles outside of business hours.
Robust sustainability and environmental policies are in place for many companies who are often held to account before trading can be approved. For companies with fleet vehicles, such as welfare vans and cars, the switch to electric can provide a dramatic reduction in CO2 emissions which will help companies targeting net zero emissions. As well as B2B expecting strong environmental policies, this is also becoming a determining factor for younger people entering the workplace who will find an employer to be a far more attractive prospect if the company is serious about helping to save the planet.
With the benefits of opting for an EV fleet of vehicles easily outnumbering any drawbacks it’s no surprise that more companies are systematically replacing older petrol and diesel vehicles with clean, electric powered cars and vans. Company owners who have cautiously decided to move to electric vehicle after waiting on the side-lines for some time are often the biggest exponents of electric fleet vehicles. An EV fleet means falling costs, an enhanced reputation and happier employees; a great formula for any company to pursue.
