Four steps to supercharge your EV fleet strategy
Making the move to EV can bring significant benefits for your fleet. They’re fantastic to drive, reduce carbon emissions, and can generate cost savings.
That said, there’s a lot to consider when developing your EV strategy. To support our fleet customers as they make the move, we got a panel of experts together to discuss EV strategy on a recent webinar – watch free here.
To whet your appetite, we thought we’d share four core things to consider when developing your EV strategy.
1. Know your numbers
The first step is to pull together all the data you have on current fleet usage and performance.
If you have telematics, use the data to get an accurate overview of distance travelled, time on the road, and average payload.
Make sure you understand accident data too – the type of incidents you’re having, and time vehicles spend off the road. Your accident management partner should be able to help with this.
This data will allow you to review EV products on the market, calculate whole-life cost, and decide if EV is right for you at this time.
2. Plan your approach to charging
Charging is the biggest change you’ll make in the move to EV.
Each fleet is different, and charging options are numerous. Home or depot-charging are likely to be more cost-effective, but you may also need to look at public infrastructure if your drivers need to recharge part way through the day.
One thing is for sure – driver buy-in is key. Nothing is more likely to turn your drivers off than the idea of being out of pocket!
3. Engage with your supply chain
The switch to EV will have a knock-on effect throughout your fleet supply chain so it’s important to get a full understanding of EV readiness.
Your supply partners may also be able to share useful data on the impact of moving to EV that supports your whole-life cost calculations.
In accident management for example, EVs are more complex to fix, so off-road time may be higher. However, accident ratios are actually lower for EVs than they are for ICE vehicles. This kind of data could prove extremely valuable in understanding the overall impact of moving to EV on fleet utilisation and running costs.
To chat to us about how sopp+sopp can support your move to EV, contact your Account Manager or email sales@soppandsopp.co.uk.
4. Gain driver buy-in
There’s often a long lead-time on new EV vehicles. Use that time wisely to gain driver buy-in.
We’ve already mentioned the importance of helping drivers understand your charging plan. We also recommend test-drives to get drivers on board. Many of our fleet partners have found that even the most sceptical drivers change their mind when they sit behind the wheel of an EV. The automatic gearbox, comfort and performance of the vehicles speak for themselves.
Finally, EV training offers real benefits in helping drivers feel comfortable in the vehicle, and getting the best possible range performance!
Listen to the full discussion
For a full discussion on the benefits and challenges of moving to an EV fleet, watch our webinar.
To chat to us about how sopp+sopp can support your move to EV, contact your Account Manager or email sales@soppandsopp.co.uk.