GREENFLEET 152

STARTING YOUR EV JOURNEY

Essential information on fleet electrification, including funding schemes, countering EV myths, installing infrastructure, EV driving, and more

Your fleet is your business. It’s ours too.

We support fleets throughout the whole EV journey, from charging at work, on the road, at home, and all the analytics and billing. We provide one solution that makes it simple for your business.

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Considering setting up a new Class VII MOT Bay or upgrading existing equipment?

Not only can Totalkare supply all of the equipment required, but working closely with you, we can take you through the process from the design of your MOT bay and application to the DVSA, through to the installation of the equipment and subsequent training and servicing.

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Paul Hollick, chair, Association of Fleet Professionals

The AFP’s Paul Hollick

Making shared fleet charging a reality

“Strong progress” is being made by the AFP’s new shared charging committee, formed to examine ways in which businesses can make their electric vehicle chargers available to other organisations. Having just held its third meeting, we have a set of electric van operators who think that shared charging is a great idea and want to make it happen. It is the objective of the new committee to look at what needs to be done to make it a practical proposition.

There are a series of hurdles– including setting prices, payment mechanisms, reimbursement, site access, health and safety on premises and more – but from our discussions so far, none of them appear to be insurmountable.

The fleets involved have various ideas and propositions. Some want to arrange reciprocal charging with others on a national basis, some have chargers and would like to offer access to others, and some even have land available where they would potentially be able to install further chargers for widespread fleet use.

There does seem to be general agreement though that shared charging is more about providing an option for top-up charging that enables electric van drivers to complete journeys during a working day as opposed to overnight charging.

The group have a real will to make this work. Creating greater access to charging would help electric van operators solve many of the operational issues that they face, and shared charging could massively increase the number of chargers available at a stroke.

UK named most-suited market for fleet electrification in Europe ELECTRIC VEHICLES

The UK has been identified as the most suited major market in Europe for fleets to go electric, a report from Geotab finds.

It suggested that two-thirds of UK vehicles currently operated by private and public sector organisations could go electric – in terms of range capability and making economic sense.

The UK’s EV suitability compares favourably to other markets covered in the report, which includes Canada (with an EV suitability of 50 per cent), Spain (43 per cent), the United States (38 per cent), Germany (35 per cent), Italy (28 per cent), France (20 per cent).

In its ‘Taking Charge’ report, Geotab analysed driver data from 1.3 million vehicles across seven countries over 12 months.

David Savage, Geotab vice president for the UK and Ireland, said that British businesses need to “double down” on fleet electrification. He added that this is “not just for the good of the environment and our collective climate goals, but for their bottom line.”

www.theafp.co.uk

It also found that EVs could prevent the use of 2.2 billion gallons of fuel while avoiding approximately 19 million metric tons of CO2 emissions over the next seven years.

Poor phone signal undermining charge point rollout success

Research from the RAC Foundation suggests that around two-thirds of Britain’s most common type of public chargepoint suffer limited mobile signal connectivity, which can be a major problem if the charger requires an app to function.

According to Department for Transport figures (based on data from ZapMap) there are 31,910 public chargers with speeds up to 8kw and almost all will be Type-2 chargers.

Chargers below 8kw are not obliged to provide for contactless payment, and the vast majority require drivers to access them via mobile phone apps.

What’s more, most chargers themselves also need an adequate mobile signal connection to function.

The RAC Foundation analysed a randomly selected sample of 2,059 Type-2 public chargers across Britain.

The research reveals that the majority of these chargers do not have an adequate level of coverage from all four mobile phone network providers (EE, O2, Three and Vodafone) to guarantee they can be activated 100 per cent of the time.

In Britain, outside of London, just a third (33.4 per cent) of the Type-2 chargers analysed are in locations where there is acceptable all-network 4G coverage.

Two-thirds (66.4 per cent) are in spots where a signal from one, two, three or even all the providers is absent or too weak to work...

Potholes in the road but Zemo will keep driving ahead

When I started the new job as Zemo’s executive director just over three months ago, I was well aware that there’s much to do and still plenty of challenges in the transition to zero emissions transport. I certainly haven’t been disabused of that notion!

There’s been a great deal going on at Zemo, even if there’s something of a preelection hiatus in wider policy terms.

We were delighted to introduce the new Council for Net Zero Transport at the start of February, with Lord Deben – formerly of the Climate Change Committee – in the Chair. In a couple of months’ time, we’ll be announcing the membership of the Council and communicating more about what it will do to help steer the decarbonisation transition.

My focus has turned to the role of Zemo’s membership (around 230 key stakeholder organisations) in driving the transition. While the new Council will help set the course, it will be the vital task of Zemo’s membership, convened through our sectoral working groups, to determine the ‘nuts and bolts’ of the transition. Through those working groups, our members will inform a roadmap to UK road transport decarbonisation that we aim to publish in the autumn.

As in previous years, each of Zemo’s working groups will also focus on a number of key projects, alongside...

Claire Haigh, executive director, Zemo Partnership

Zemo Partnership’s Claire Haigh

London fuel sales have dropped dramatically, analysis suggests AIR QUALITY

Diesel fuel sales have dropped the most in London compared to the rest of the UK, new analysis has found.

Sales fell nearly 40 per cent over the past four years with other regions only managing a decline of 20 per cent.

Transport and Environment (T&E) UK said this demonstrates that the Ultra Low Emissions Zone (ULEZ) not only has positive air pollution impacts, but also improves energy security and trade deficit.

As a result, T&E UK, which analysed Department for Energy Security and Net Zero statistics, is calling for other regions across the UK to introduce clean air measures and, at a national level, rules specifically targeted at reducing diesel be considered.

Oliver Lord, UK head of the Clean Cities Campaign, said: “We’ve known for years that diesel fumes are ruining our lives so it’s inspiring to see this change in London, but the bottom line is we won’t breathe freely until diesel engines are ditched for good.

“With the right commitment, coordination and leadership from all levels of government our cities can be almost free of diesel by 2030, but only when coupled with the support to make that happen and especially for small businesses.”

In 2019, London introduced ULEZ which charges older, more polluting cars a fee to enter the city...

Britishvolt factory plans scrapped for data centre BATTERIES

Plans to build an electric vehicle battery plant in Northumberland have been scrapped, with Northumberland County Council now suggesting the site could be a computer data centre.

Britishvolt had planned to build a £3.8 billion gigafactory on the site, but the company collapsed in January 2023.

There had previously been talks that the Australian startup company Recharge would make use of the site after they bought Britishvolt, but this has also fallen through.

The Council says it is now considering amending the buy-back option on Northumberland Energy Park (NEP3), which was home to Britishvolt, in exchange for up to £110 million from private equity firm Blackstone.

It will be invested by the firm for cloud and AI data centre company QTS, which is owned by Blackstone, to build the largest data centre in Europe at the site.

Council leader Glen Sanderson told the Northumberland Gazette that the project would put the county “at the forefront of developments in the digital economy” and would deliver 1,600 direct jobs.

He added: “Driving growth and jobs is a key priority for this council. Next week, cabinet will consider this really unique opportunity for Northumberland which offers a huge boost to the regeneration and renaissance of the local area.”

More top news stories from www.greenfleet.net

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decarbonisation: READ MORE

Octopus Energy and Omoda sign EV deal: READ MORE

FleetEV introduces social value initiative in Wales: READ MORE

Logistics UK’s Phil Lloyd

Trial to examine energy flexibility solutions in EV charging: READ MORE

MAN plans hydrogen combustion engine truck : READ MORE

Europcar boosts electric delivery and collection fleet: READ MORE

Southern Water rolls out solar-powered vans SOLAR POWER

Southern Water will be replacing a third of its engineering vehicle fleet with more than 300 new vans – the majority of which will be partially powered by solar panels.

The solar panels, located on the roofs, will help drivers and engineers charge equipment while out and about – meaning they can get more done without taking trips to sites.

The new vans will be driven by operational, technical and customer teams across the Southeast.

The new vehicles will also feature safety sensors for checking van weight, all season tyres and 70mph controlled speed limiters.

Martin Lock, fleet manager at Southern Water said: “We are replacing around a third of our fleet with new vehicles. Vans such as the Vauxhall Combo, Vivaro and Movano, plus Ford 4 x 4 Ranger pickup will replace some of our older vehicles and include the new livery. There are some exciting new features that include solar panels on the van’s roofs to power on board batteries, reversing cameras and on board weighing.”

There are also more than 30 new 4x4 automatic trucks, which will be used at remotes sites and for off road operational use.

READ MORE

Addressing the skills gap: Upskilling for gas-powered vehicles

In recent years, and in line with the drive towards net zero emissions, there has been an increase in the acquisition of EV vehicles and those powered by alternative fuels such as gas - whether it’s Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), Compresserd Natural Gas (CNG), Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) or Hydrogen (H2).

This has dramatically changed the requisite skills of HGV engineers and as a result, the industry has made great strides in upskilling its workforce to accommodate the alternative fuel. There are now a variety of technical training courses widely available for engineers and technicians to develop their competence with electric vehicles; however, the same cannot be said for gas-powered vehicles.

The current lack of appropriate training provision is possibly due to the market being much smaller since it is concentrated in heavy vehicles, where vehicle volumes are substantially lower than that for cars. It means that, while purchasers of new gas-powered vehicles are generally offered training by the original equipment manufacturers (OEM), there is little else available on the wider market. This is a potential cause of concern for the haulage industry because over the next few years, more gas-powered vehicles will become available on the second-hand market, yet training is not widely available for those who are not buying new vehicles to ensure they are correctly serviced.

It is imperative that operators ensure they are running fleets safely and Logistics UK has been working with its members to identify both training requirements and training...

CONTINUE READING

Phil Lloyd, head of engineering policy, Logistics UK

Choosing the right EV infrastructure for your commercial business

As well as choosing the right kind of electric vehicle, businesses will need to think about the installation of EV infrastructure

Most EV chargers can support a mixed fleet, making the switch to commercial EVs even easier. Whether your business runs a fleet of light commercial vehicles or passenger company cars, all vehicles can be charged at the same charging stations, meaning your investment in EV is easily scalable across different office locations and at employees’ homes, should they be required.

Furthermore, EV solutions come with seamless ways of ensuring staff are charged appropriately for their mileage. Contactless payment cards will accurately monitor where and when staff charge their vehicles, meaning your employees are able to charge at home, at the office or at public charge sites depending on your vehicle policy. With automated billing data, you can make sure employees are charged correctly for their business miles. Book a call with our experts if you’d like to know more. M

Funding schemes for electric vehicle adoption

Cost is often cited as a barrier to electric vehicle adoption. To help with this, the government has various funding schemes in place. We summarise what grants are available and what they cover

The United Kingdom reached its millionth battery electric car sales milestone in January 2024, according to figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). What’s more, the UK now has a legally binding zero emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate in place, which requires 80 per cent of new cars and 70 per cent of new vans sold in Great Britain to be zero emission by 2030. It’s well reported that fleets are mainly driving this transition to electric vehicles.

In March 2024, the SMMT showed that registrations of battery electric vehicles rose by 3.8 per cent, with only fleets showing any volume growth.

However, many organisations have not yet begun the move to electric vehicles, or have started with the ‘easy wins’ and are now moving on to the more complex fleet electrification scenarios.

One of the main barriers to fleet electrification is the upfront costs involved, even when whole life costs are better than with ICE vehicles. And installing complex workplace charging can be costly, especially if you have to get a grid connection upgrade. In acknowledgement of this, the government has various funding schemes available. E

F Plug-in vehicle grant

The plug-in vehicle grant remains in place for taxis, motorcycles, vans, trucks and wheelchair accessible vehicles. Buyers do not apply for the grant, it is offered as a discount in the purchase price by the seller.

The grant for small vans applies to vehicles that are less than 2,500kg gross vehicle weight, have CO2 emissions of less than 50g/km and can travel at least 60 miles with no emissions. The grant will pay for 35 per cent of the purchase price for small vans, up to a maximum of £2,500.

The grant for large vans meanwhile is for vehicles that are between 2,500kg and 4,250kg gross vehicle weight, have CO2 emissions of less than 50g/km, and can travel at least 60 miles without any emissions at all. The grant will pay up to a maximum of £5,000.

The grant for taxis can be used on vehicles with CO2 emissions of less than 50g/km that can travel at least 70 miles without any emissions at all, such as the Dynamo Taxi and LEVC TX. The grant will pay for 20 per cent of the purchase price for these vehicles, up to a maximum of £7,500.

The grant for small trucks is for vehicles that are between 4,250kg and 12,000kg gross weight, with CO2 emissions of at least 50 per cent less than the equivalent conventional Euro VI vehicle that can carry the same capacity and can travel at least 60 miles with no emissions. The grant will pay for 20 per cent of the purchase price, up to a maximum of £16,000.

The grant for large trucks is up to £25,000. To be eligible for a grant, the vehicle must be heavier than 12,000kg, have CO2 emissions of at least 50 per cent less than the equivalent conventional Euro VI vehicle that can carry the same capacity, and be able to travel at least 60 miles without any emissions.

The EV infrastructure grant for staff and fleets is for small-to-medium-sized businesses with up to 249 employees. It can help cover the cost of wider building and installation work

The workplace charging scheme

The Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS) is open to businesses, charities, public sector organisations and small accommodation businesses, such as hotels or campsites with 249 employees or less. Funding for this is confirmed until 31 March 2025.

The grant covers up to 75 per cent of the total costs of the purchase and installation of EV chargepoints and is capped at a maximum of £350 per sockets and 40 sockets across all sites per applicant.

Applicants must have dedicated offroad parking that is clearly associated with the premises, or permission from the landowner if they don’t own it. Applicants should have their site surveyed by an installer before you apply for the grant.

Organisations must provide evidence that the parking is for their staff or fleet, not for customer use, and there must be parking spaces that are suitable for chargepoint installations. All chargepoint parking must be designated to you, although the rest of the car park may be shared with other organisations.

If you’re a public authority, charity or small accommodation business, there is no restriction on who may use the parkingcustomers, guests, visitors, staff or others.

If you’re a business, your chargepoints can only be used by your staff/fleets, but you can allow local residents to use outside of office hours when they will not typically be used by your staff or fleet vehicles.

You may make the chargepoints available for use by the public. If you do so, you must comply with the Public Chargepoint Regulations 2023 and associated guidance.

EV infrastructure grant

The EV infrastructure grant for staff and fleets is for small-to-medium-sized businesses in E

F the UK with 249 employees or less. It can help cover the cost of wider building and installation work, such as wiring and posts, that’s needed to install multiple chargepoint sockets. The work can be for sockets that are to be installed now and in the future.

Funding is confirmed until 31 March 2025, and covers up to 75 per cent of the cost of the work. There is a limit of £15,000 per grant and you can get up to £350 per chargepoint socket installed and £500 per parking space.

Organisations can receive up to five grants across five different sites.

The chargepoint can only be used by the building’s staff and vehicles and cannot be used by members of the public.

Each parking space that is having a chargepoint installed must be off-street, private and clearly defined, but it does not have to be part of the property. The parking space must be owned by the organisation applying for the chargepoints, or be

a space that they have the legal right to use. The chargepoint must be from an OZEV approved list.

On-Street Residential Chargepoint Scheme

Local authorities can apply for the On-Street Residential Chargepoint Scheme, which is designed to increase the availability of onstreet chargepoints in residential streets where off-street parking is not available.

Funding has not been confirmed for beyond March 2024 – however, applications are allowed until the current allocated funding runs out. The scheme was changed recently to allow the funding go further. It now provides up to a maximum of 50 per cent of project capital costs, where it was previously 60 per cent.

Grants are capped at £200,000. Following updates to how electrical upgrade costs are funded, grants provided will not exceed £7,500 per chargepoint.

Before embarking on a project however, it is advisable to understand the level of public funding required.

While the scheme is primarily for on-street charging, it can be used in car parks if they are owned by the local authority or another group, where long term leasing agreements are in place, such as a village hall. The car parks must be accessible on a 24/7 basis.

All chargepoints installed through this scheme must have a minimum payment method, such as contactless.

It is worth noting that this grant was changed recently to allow it to be used on charging infrastructure for the use of local authority-supported car clubs.

Specific funding for schools

Education settings now have access to a dedicated grant, called the Workplace Charging Scheme for state-funded education institutions.

State-funded education settings, including schools, colleges, nurseries and academies, can apply for the grant which provides up to 75 per cent of the cost to buy and install chargepoints, up to £2,500 per socket - which is a rise from the previous £350 which schools were able to receive through the Workplace Charging Grant.

The grant aims to boost the chargepoint facilities for staff and visitors, and has the potential to help schools generate revenue by making their chargepoints available to the public.

Applications for the grant are made online, and the closing date is 31 March 2025. Successful applicants will receive a voucher that is valid for 180 days from the date of issue and the installation must be completed within this time.

Independent schools are not eligible for this grant but can apply for funding through the Workplace Charging Scheme and the Electric vehicle infrastructure grant for SMEs.

Apply sooner rather than later

We have summed up the latest government schemes to drive up electric vehicle adoption and improve charging infrastructure. Government grants have a tendency to change often to allow money to be targetted at other areas that need stimulation.

Organisations and local authorities are therefore urged to apply as soon as possible before funding is reduced or is withdrawn. L

SPONSOR’S COMMENT

Can electric vehicles do the job of our existing fleet?

A common obstacle to business-fleet electrification is the doubt over operational practicality: “Can electric vehicles do the job of our existing fleet?”

An upfront electrification suitability assessment can answer that question. It’ll also reveal the extent of disruption electrification will cause to your existing operations. And it’ll help prove the benefits of electrification to your organisation’s decision-makers.

By using telematics to track the activities of a representative selection of vehicles over a defined period, you can record vehicles’ mileages, whereabouts and dwell locations/ times. This will give you supporting evidence for prioritising vehicles to transition and for specifying EV models, charge-station power, charging locations and operational charging schedules.

Drax Electric Vehicles can design and manage your suitability assessment – and explain the projected impact of electrification. We’ll even use the results to help you build a business case.

Assessing your fleet’s EV suitability is the first step in a successful transition. L

FURTHER INFORMATION

energy.drax.com/ev

Naomi Nye head of sales, Drax Electric Vehicles

Smart charging solutions for fleets

We support fleets throughout the whole EV journey, from charging at work, on the road, at home, and all the analytics and billing. We provide one solution that makes it simple for your business.

We make it easy

Simplify your transition to an electric fleet and compliantly reduce your administrative workload in managing your fleet. We provide cost transparency on all charging and offer solutions to reduce your fleet TCO. Our 100% green fleet solution from home to work and on the road allows for detailed reporting on sustainability performance.

“Our mission is to drive simplification, cost reduction and sustainability in fleet operation through smart charging solutions”

Start as you mean to go on

Every organisation’s electrification journey will be different. Before investing in vehicles or hardware, businesses need to understand their unique challenge – based on a combination of factors

Our recent research into UK organisations’ electrification progress revealed that over half (52 per cent) of businesses hadn’t yet installed any EV charge points.

Cited barriers to EV adoption include cost, lack of government support and uncertainty in the technology. But with competitors already reaping the benefits, together with the looming 2035 ban on the sale and manufacture of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, it’s crucial businesses prioritise electrification.

Why electrify now?

As well as ‘beating the ban’, there are sustainability and PR advantages associated with transitioning to EVs sooner rather than later. Offering zero tailpipe emissions and a visible display of environmental awareness, EVs can help propel organisations towards net zero and enable them to promote their CSR and ESG credentials.

What’s more, implementing an electric fleet and a supporting charging infrastructure enables organisations to start recouping costs. EV purchase/hire prices are generally higher than those of equivalent ICE vehicles, so the sooner fleet managers switch to cheaper fuel and maintenance outlay, the sooner they can start enjoying the savings. Company EVs and accessible charging facilities can also help organisations attract and retain drivers and other staff – and serve customers and visitors.

Where to start?

Electrification’s not as simple as buying the best-looking or most affordable EVs

and handing the keys to your drivers. While it’s important to start the transition – and ideally soon – it’s even more important to make sure you start in the right place.

Every organisation’s electrification journey will be different. Before investing in vehicles or hardware, businesses need to understand their unique challenge –based on a combination of factors.

To understand their operational requirements, organisations should analyse where their vehicles need to be, how far they travel and where and when they’re available for charging. An electrification suitability assessment (such as the one in Naomi’s comment in this issue) – along with detailed electrical site surveys – will give businesses the data they need.

High-level strategic factors will also influence organisations’ routes to electrification. It’s particularly important to understand the business’s sustainability direction of travel when planning (and seeking support for) the transition.

And, of course, organisations need to use financial pragmatism. Often, carrying out a small-scale EV trial will give businesses the proof – and the confidence – they need to commit to larger-scale transition. Spreading the costs of electrification in this way – and by leveraging both hardware financing options and potential government grants – can help make the process affordable. M

energy.drax.com/ev

Getting the best out of your electric vehicle

Fleet manager Kevin Booker, who has four Guinness World Records for electric vehicle driving, shares useful tips for getting the most range out of an electric vehicle, as well as keeping running costs down

Record-high energy prices have made electric vehicle efficiency as much of a talking point as traditional concerns about range. There are lots of factors that affect the range you’ll get out of a full charge, but few have as big an effect as the person behind the wheel.

I have been a fan of electric vehicles for a long time, having first bought 22kWh Renault Zoe way back in 2015 – on many occasions I’d achieve over 130 miles to a single charge - and becoming an all-electric household in the last four years with a fleet consisting of an Ioniq 5

and Kona Electric. This EV knowledge has also crossed into my day job as IT and Fleet Manager for a National Park, by a programme that has involved the switch to full electric pool car fleet.

In almost a decade of driving electric vehicles, I’ve come to enjoy the challenge of pushing the boundaries of efficiency and how far you can go between charges, often managing to significantly beat the manufactures official range figures. I have taken part in three of the GreenFleet EV Rallies including EVROS, John o’ Groats to Lands End, and the Capital City Challenge. I also have four Guinness World Records for driving EVs between John o’ Groats to Lands End; shortest charging time, one charge stop, and longest distance to a single charge on an electric van.

However, there are some simple tips that any driver can use to keep their EV running costs down.

Think about where you charge

Plugging in at home is always going to be the cheapest way to get a full charge. Home energy VAT rates are five per cent rather than 20 per cent for public chargepoints, and there are several off-peak tariffs from suppliers like Octopus and Ovo with prices from 7.5-9.5 pence per kWh. This means that for a typical EV such as the Hyundai Kona, a full charge can cost as little as £4.80 to allow 300 miles of travel.

If you do have to rapid charge on the move, this can be significantly more expensive, but if planning routes using tools such as Zap Map, you can find the cheapest places to plug in. Although a lot of chargers accept contactless payments, an Octopus Electroverse card will give you discounts on some of the networks. Fleet managers may like to consider a Paua card, which gives you the convenience of a fuel card but covers a large amount of the charging providers.

Be strategic with your heaters

Particularly useful during spells of colder weather, learn how to use your vehicles heating system. I often find I get in someone’s EV and find the temperature set to max; you wouldn’t do this at home so set your car to a comfortable setting and leave it theresomething like 19-20 degrees will be fine and will save a lot of energy and increase range. Lots of EVs also have a preconditioning function, meaning you can use mains electricity to heat up the car before you leave saving you

even more precious miles. Also, if your EV is fitted with heated seats and steering wheel, use those instead as it is much more efficient to heat the person directly than the air in the car first.

Read the road

Think back to when you were learning to drive and your driving instructor told you to look ahead and adjust accordingly. This is no different when driving an electric car. However, over time, people tend to switch off when driving, which results in late braking, heavy acceleration and erratic driving when faced with an obstacle which uses for energy and causes more wear to tyres.

Reading the road, anticipating traffic light changes, gaps at roundabouts and change in directions will make your driving experience smoother and drastically improve the efficiency of your electric car or van. Over time, adjusting your driving style will allow E

Mastering regenerative braking allows you to reduce the excessive use of your brake pedal and increase battery range. In the long run, utilising this technique will increase the life of your brake pads, reducing one of the very few maintenance costs of running EVs

F you to gain plenty of additional miles to ensure you reach your destination.

Select the right tyres

With any vehicle, tyres are what connect you to the road. When searching for a new set of

tyres, one may consider a premium-rated tyre for increased safety or more fuel efficiency –this is this is a rating from A to G. This is still the case with EVs. In fact, tyre choice is even more important as this will have a direct impact on your battery range. Therefore, when shopping for tyres, I would recommend selecting an A-rated tyre for rolling resistance. Over time, the right tyres will result in reduced charging frequency and provide you with additional battery range for your peace of mind.

Take advantage of regenerative braking

This is a key difference when switching to EVs. As you lift your foot off the accelerator the car begins to decelerate at a much quicker rate. The energy that is usually wasted is replenished back into the battery during deceleration and turns it into electrical power. Therefore, by adjusting your driving style to lift off the pedal earlier before junctions, the regenerative

Kevin Booker holding his certificate for the lowest energy consumption driving from John O’Groats to Lands End in an electric car

braking will do most of the work for you.

Mastering regenerative braking allows you to reduce the excessive use of your brake pedal and increase battery range. In the long run, utilising this technique will increase the life of your brake pads, reducing one of the very few maintenance costs of running electric vehicles.

Check your tyre pressures

Selecting the correct tyre is just the first step to maximising your electric vehicle range. Without the correct tyre pressure, the tyres will be less stiff resulting in a higher rolling resistance and decreased range performance. Therefore, if you have chosen an A-rated tyre for rolling resistance, you will not be maximising the efficiency potential. Research indicates that a slight reduction in PSI can significantly impact the battery range of electric vehicles. I strongly recommend checking your tyre pressures at least once a month and before and after long-distance journeys.

Be gentle

New electric cars offer instant power, enabling quick manoeuvring at junctions and during overtakes. However, it’s important to remember: just because you can doesn’t mean you should, as rapid acceleration negatively affects your overall electric range. To ensure a smoother and more efficient journey, it is advisable to train yourself to gently press the accelerator, gradually increasing momentum to reach your desired speed. This driving approach will help to increase you driving range by a significant margin.

Don’t carry excess weight

Whether you’re a delivery driver with fixed stops or planning a family holiday or road trip, factoring in added vehicle weight is crucial. Often overlooked are how additional loads can impact the battery range along the journey. Therefore, it’s advisable to travel with minimal weight, avoiding unnecessary cargo whenever possible. While certain loads may be unavoidable, consider the effect on the vehicle’s range and adjust accordingly. These measures will ultimately help you operate your electric vehicle more efficiently and save time and money charging – as well as on other wear-and-tear items – in the long run. M

FURTHER INFORMATION

Connect with Kevin Booker here

A choice of BEV models for across the fleet spectrum

We’re excited to launch the first-ever BMW iX2 and offer our customers yet another all-electric BMW model to add to their fleets. Along with the new iX1 eDrive20 and the forthcoming new MINI Cooper and Countryman, we now have BEV models right across the fleet spectrum and a greater choice for company car drivers than ever before.

The iX2 combines unmistakable BMW driving dynamics, game-changing technology and an impressive range, as well as a range of complimentary support; including our latest My BMW app integration, Proactive Care technology to monitor fleet vehicles and contact the driver if needed, and our BMW Corporate Certified network to provide industry-leading service.

We’re committed to supporting you and your fleets with both class-leading, dynamic EV products and an unparalleled retailer experience throughout ownership.

To find out more about this ground-breaking car, search BMW iX2. L

FURTHER INFORMATION

www.bmw.co.uk

Matt Collins, general manager corporate sales, BMW Group UK

A ground-breaking vehicle, an exceptional fleet experience

The first ever all-electric BMW iX2 is a real crowd-pleaser - that perfect blend of what fleet managers need, and their drivers demand

The BMW iX2 combines unmistakable BMW driving dynamics with instant electric performance and an impressive range of up to 283* miles.

Ultimate peace of mind

To keep your fleet running smoothly, the BMW iX2 comes with a host of safety features and Proactive Care. Technology that constantly monitors the vehicle and contacts the driver when something requires action –via SMS, a message sent to the vehicle, or the My BMW App. If it’s urgent, the driver will receive a call from a BMW expert.

My BMW App makes electric life easy

The My BMW App maximises the driving experience. It lets the driver choose optimised charging routes, check battery levels and view journey statistics – useful for submitting expense claims.

Tailored fleet management

BMW Corporate Certified is a programme that provides industry-leading service and tailored support to fleet managers, company car drivers and leasing companies.

Certified Retailers across our network are committed to providing an enhanced BMW experience and ultimately benefiting your business.

We also offer a range of tools and services to assist our corporate customers in achieving their sustainability goals.

A commitment to sustainability

At BMW we recognise the environmental footprint of our vehicles which is why reducing their impact is embedded into our Corporate Strategy.

CO2 emissions from vehicle production have been lowered by over 70 per cent since 2006. And all plants in our production network have been operating a net carbon-neutral policy since 2021.

The BMW Group has an ongoing commitment to sustainability, throughout a vehicle’s entire life cycle, and we are increasing the use of secondary raw materials in vehicle production.

The BMW iX2 uses matt paints made from biomass instead of crude oil – we’re the first automotive company worldwide to do this – and from this year, its aluminium wheels will be manufactured entirely using electricity from renewable sources.

The new 100 per cent electric BMW iX2 sees the BMW Group continuing to pioneer. It’s premium, electric mobility in a compact Sports Activity Coupé from just £51,615 on the road.

To add the new BMW iX2 to your fleet, visit here.

*WLTP range figure for the BMW iX2 eDrive20 was obtained after battery fully charged. Shown for comparability purposes. May not reflect real-life driving results. M

Pushing back against EV misinformation

The influx of misinformation around electric vehicles can be a barrier for organisations looking to make the switch. So what are the facts and the fiction? Campaign group FairCharge has written a guide with the aim of settling some arguments in the EV debate

According to the Association of Fleet Professionals (AFP), countering EV “scare stories” is becoming a key task for fleet managers.

The influx of misinformation and myths around electric vehicles – such as they catch fire more easily or are not as green as they claim to be – is presenting itself as a barrier for some organisations looking to transition to electric. This is especially the case if drivers are reluctant to make the switch due to negative stories that they’ve heard and read.

Paul Hollick, AFP chair, commented: “Sadly, it seems to have become quite popular to create scare stories about EVs – that they catch fire easily and cannot be extinguished, that they will all run out of power simultaneously in cold weather and block motorways, that they

are more environmentally damaging than ICE cars and vans, that current models will be worthless in a matter of years, and more.

“Of course, there are now hundreds of thousands of company car drivers happily using EVs who know that this stuff is largely nonsense or based only a few isolated instances, but there tend to be a handful of people in every organisation who will seize on these stories and share them with other employees.”

The Environment and Climate Change Committee recent report into the government’s electric vehicle strategy highlighted that the scale of misinformation about electric vehicles had not been matched by any urgency in tackling it from the government. It said: “Faced with conflicting claims and

alarmist headlines, consumers need a go-to source of comprehensive, clear and balanced information so they can make informed decisions about their vehicles.”

Positively, the EV industry is helping to push back and counter this misinformation.

Campaign group FairCharge has recently published an EV guide, called the Little Book of EV Myths , which was written in conjunction with the RAC and hopes to settle some of the arguments in the EV debate.

The guide is supported by FullyCharged Live, Stop Burning Stuff, Charge Safe and RechargeUK.

Here we take a look at some of the misinformation being tackled in the guide, in the hope of arming fleet managers with the information they need to counter any claims thrown there way.

Do EVs regularly catch fire?

Evidence suggest that there are no grounds to say that electric vehicles catch fire more easily than ICE vehicles.

FairCharge’s guide quotes fire service estimates that there are around 100,000 vehicle fires every year in the UK and records for 2022 to 2023 show that only 0.24 per cent were EV fires.

Meanwhile, the Swedish Contingencies Agency have reported that ‘Petrol and diesel cars are 20 times more likely to catch fire than EVs’.

In America, data from the National Transportation Safety Board reported that battery-powered vehicles suffer 25 fires

The influx of misinformation and myths around electric vehicles – such as they catch fire more easily or are not as green as they claim to be – is presenting itself as a barrier for organisations looking to transition to electric

for every 100,000 sold, compared to 1,530 fires for petrol vehicles.

Do EVs pollute more than ICE cars?

A common myth that comes up time and again is that electric vehicles are not as green as they claim to be.

The FairCharge guide says this has come from pollution from battery mining and manufacture, often in China, where coal-fired electricity grids power car and battery factories. But research by the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) has shown that when driven in Europe, an EV will pay off its carbon debt after around 11,000 miles, after which the full life cycle CO2 emissions are around three times lower than an average petrol car.

A Carbon Brief analysis in 2023, showed that a Tesla Model Y, driven in the UK, would pay off its carbon debt after around 13,000 miles – less than two years’ driving. After 14 years of driving the average petrol car has a carbon footprint of 45 tonnes of CO2. A Tesla Model Y driven over the same period in the UK would emit 14 tonnes of CO2 - a saving of 68 per cent.

What about the electricity used to power EVs?

Another criticism of electric vehicles is that they still rely on power stations to get the electricity to charge.

But in the UK, we have a relatively green power system. The FairCharge guide says that in March 2024, 67 per cent of power to the UK grid came from zero carbon sources. Wind accounted for 49 per cent, gas 15 per cent, nuclear nine per cent, and solar nine per centthe rest a mix of biomass, imports, and hydro.

Therefore, driving an EV in the UK, charged on a low-carbon grid, or better still on a lowcost evening tariff where only renewable electricity is used, means that the energy E

F emissions produced for the electricity to charge the EV’s battery are low.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (ICT) said in their report: “even with current grids, EVs reduce emissions in almost all cases.” Electric cars can reduce emissions even when being charged with electricity from fossil fuel heavy grids because they are roughly four times more energy efficient that combustion cars.

EVs don’t go far enough

An age-old criticism of electric vehicles is that they don’t have enough range to go where they need to go. This may have been a problem when electric vehicle technology and the public charging infrastructure was in its infancy – but they have advanced at a rapid rate.

The FairCharge guide quotes charging provider Gridserve, who says that the average real-world range of an EV in the UK in 2023 is 219 miles “meaning that the average motorist will be able to drive for two weeks on a single charge”.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) agree, with their average figure slightly higher at 236 miles. The latest models with improved battery chemistries have much higher ranges with the Polestar 3 claiming 379 miles, the Polestar 2 406 miles, and the latest Tesla Model 3 at 391 miles.

The highest range EV in the UK is currently the Mercedes EQS. A large 107.8 kWh battery pack and low drag coefficient means that the EQS can cover a claimed 458 miles on one charge. It’s important to say that these

are all WLTP official battery range figures and - like combustion cars - will vary in realworld driving and colder temperatures.

Research from data provider, Cap hpi, shows that an average of 8,292 miles are driven annually by EV owners compared to 9,035 by petrol and diesel owners.

Mining of materials for EV batteries

The FairCharge book tackles the argument that the mining of materials for EV batteries is bad for the environment. It cites the Energy Transition Commission’s latest report – Material and Resource Requirements for the Energy Transition – published July 2023, which says the cumulative global emissions of CO2 and other greenhouse gases from battery mining and production of solar panels and wind turbines over the next 30 years will add up to between 15 to 35 gigatonnes of CO2. This should be compared to the 40 gigatonnes of CO2 from global fossil fuel energy extraction that’s emitted every single year. In 2018 the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) reported that 89 per cent of global emissions come from fossil fuels.

The FairCharge book concludes therefore, that “attempting to argue that emissions from mining for battery minerals could possibly exceed the global emissions from exploration, drilling, extracting, shipping, refining, transporting, distribution and burning of fossil fuels is a bit of a stretch –even for a very hard-core EV doubter”.

The electricity grid won’t cope

Another topic that comes up time and again is the fear that the electricity grid would not be able to cope once everyone transitions to electric vehicles.

National Grid ESO says that the UK could “comfortably handle” even an overnight switch to EVs, because of a fall of around 16 per cent in electricity demand through technological efficiencies over the past two decades. It also says that EVs could actually “support the grid by storing excess generation from renewable sources and giving it back to the grid in times of high demand”.

National Grid also says that if the UK switched to EVs overnight “we estimate demand would only increase by around 10 per cent”.

However, the company does agree that more work is needed with distribution companies, government, OFGEM and others

to ensure that “the wires, the connections to charge points” are in place to support EVs.

Moving forwards

It must be acknowledged, however, that there are still some challenges when it comes to switching to electric vehicles - and these challenges are being ironed out through government policy, industry work, and of course, early adopters sharing their experiences.

But it is unhelpful and unnecessary to “scare” drivers with information that is not true, no longer true, or misrepresented.

Arming yourself with the facts to counter misinformation, sharing positive stories about electric vehicles, and getting more people test driving electric vehicles - is the way to move forward.

AFP Chair Paul Hollick said: “Fleet managers within the AFP are gathering and sharing EV facts and figures that they can use whenever one of these scare stories is raised by one or more employees. It’s become a process of reassurance.

“The overwhelming experience of most fleets is that once drivers start using EVs, they love them and few would return to an ICE vehicle. The objections tend to come from those with limited or no exposure. It’s not unknown for fleet managers who are successfully running hundreds of EVs to be solemnly warned by a colleague that electrification will never work.” M

FURTHER INFORMATION

Read the Little Book of EV Myths here

SPONSOR’S COMMENT

Championing vehicle usership over ownership

Drivers and businesses are increasingly focusing on and prioritising sustainability and zero emissions mobility and Europcar is empowering them to go greener. Widening awareness of the role vehicle rental can play in helping reduce the environmental impact of fleets, Europcar champions the idea of vehicle usership over ownership.

Having developed a number of mobility solutions that provide an effective alternative to vehicle ownership, Europcar is dispelling the myths and changing attitudes around electric motoring, ultimately helping drivers and fleets to reduce emissions.

Whether renting an electric or hybrid vehicle for several days, weeks, months or longer, Europcar is supporting the evolution towards zero emissions driving.

This real-world driving experience allows business drivers to ‘try before they switch’, and Europcar’s rapidly growing EV and PHEV rental fleet provides a vehicle for every business journey. L

FURTHER INFORMATION

europcar.co.uk/business/electric

Mark Newberry, commercial director and sustainability spokesperson, Europcar Mobility Group UK

Going greener by dispelling the myths

Misinformation is a key issue in preventing businesses and private motorists from making the switch to electric vehicles. Europcar is tackling the perceptions problem head-on by making electric vehicles accessible without long-term financial commitments or penalties

A recent Government inquiry by the House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee stated that misinformation was a key issue in deterring businesses and private motorists from making the switch to electric.

Europcar is tackling the perceptions problem head-on with a clear strategy to make electric vehicles accessible without longterm financial commitments or penalties.

Rental for a few days, weeks or months not only makes EVs easily accessible without any availability delays; it also puts employees in the driving seat to test EVs in real world conditions.

Europcar is working with many businesses to help them understand where electric motoring might impact productivity – and how to mitigate against that. A range of electric cars and vans are helping companies take a road of discovery and learn which EVs will be right for them. And, as a result, companies and their employees are discovering that ‘range anxiety’ really doesn’t have to be a barrier.

Often the normal daily mileage of someone driving for business doesn’t mean they need to stop to charge during the working day. A charge at home outside of working hours, or at business premises can provide the range they need. And for those that do go the distance, Europcar’s partnership with Zapmap means they can easily plan where they can stop for a charging top up without significant delay.

A sustainable solution in more ways than one

As a forward-thinking vehicle rental business, Europcar is committed to helping companies

find the right zero or low emissions vehicles for their specific needs. For some that will mean battery electric; for others it will be a mixture of electric, hybrid and younger more efficient petrol and diesel vehicles at least in the short term, while making the transition. Rental also provides a sustainable alternative to ownership.  Why commit to long-term ownership of vehicles that will stand idle for much of the working week?

On a mission to eliminate the FUD Europcar is on a mission to dispel the Fear, Uncertainty and Doubt about electric motoring. A wealth of information is available on the Europcar Digital EV Guide; a network of Certified Electric Vehicle Experts support customers at vehicle handover and information about charging options helps businesses and drivers work out what’s the best solution for them at home, work and at the roadside. M

FURTHER INFORMATION

europcar.co.uk/business/electric

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A guide to installing charging infrastructure

From power requirements to landlord permissions, installing fleet, workplace or depot charging infrastructure needs careful consideration. Here’s what you need to know

When considering electric vehicles and assessing whether or not you need charging infrastructure installed at the workplace, it’s important to examine your fleet’s operational requirements. Can vehicles potentially charge at home or on the public network? Do you run ‘back to base’ operations when vehicles can charge at night? Or do you run a round-the-clock service which will need a rapid DC charging for quick top ups?

If it’s decided that you need to install charging infrastructure on site, there are many points to contemplate. Firstly, you’ll need to understand your power availability. This involves finding out the size of your agreed supply capacity (ASC) from your DNO,

how much of that power you use, and what spare capacity remains for EV chargers. This process is vital so you do not exceed your supply and risk a power outage.

If your site does have power limitations, there are ways to get grid connection upgrades via your district network operator, although this is an expensive move.

Other ways include using smart chargers with load balancing capabilities, or having the ability to generate your own power, such as solar, used with energy storage.

Load balancing systems/software will use real time energy monitoring to change the maximum amount of energy that chargers can use based on availability and requirement of the site. E

F An important part of the EV installation process is getting a site survey. This will assess how EV charging can be installed and engineers will typically visit the site to assess power requirements and if any groundworks would need to be done.

A good chargepoint installer will be happy to do the above as part of their service.

If you don’t own the property, you will need to obtain consent from the landlord for chargepoints to be installed. This can be time consuming and may involve legal work, so it’s worth beginning these conversations as early as you can.

Understanding charging speeds

You will need to understand the different charging speeds to understand what is the most appropriate for you fleet.

Fast charging has speeds of between 7kWh – 25kWh and is suited to destination, fleet, and overnight depot charging.

Rapid charging has speeds of 50kWh – 100kWh and can be used for quick turnaround charging.

Ultra-Rapid has speeds of 150kWh – 400kWh and is suited for public charging hubs, car parks, short-stay destinations and electric HGVs.

It’s also helpful to understand the difference between AC and DC charging.

A chargepoint with alternating current (AC) will get the alternating current from the grid and pass this on to the vehicle to convert to direct current and feed into the

An important part of the EV installation process is getting a site survey. Engineers will typically visit the site to assess power requirements and if any groundworks would need to be done

electric vehicle’s battery. The vehicle dictates the maximum AC charging rate, typically 7kW, 11kW and 22kW (though there are few vehicles capable at the highest rate).

DC charge points have the converter within the charger which means that the power is converted to DC before it is passed to the EV. The size of the converters will be much bigger than those inside a vehicle and therefore this results in a faster charge time.

Back office systems

When choosing your chargepoint installer, it’s important to find out about their back office portals. A good back office system will allow you to monitor charging times, speeds, payments and conduct CO2 reporting.

It’s also important to look at what aftercare the chargepoint operator offers for service and maintenance, including callouts for repair.

Get help with funding

There are various government grants for installing chargepoints, such as the The Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS) and The EV infrastructure grant for staff and fleets.

The Workplace Charging Scheme is open to businesses, charities, public sector organisations and small accommodation businesses, such as hotels or campsites (with 249 employees or less). Both have funding confirmed until 31 March 2025.

The WCS grant covers up to 75 per cent of the total costs of the purchase and installation of EV chargepoints and is capped at a maximum of £350 per sockets and 40 sockets across all sites per applicant.

The organisation requiring the chargepoints must apply for the grant, and if they are successful, will be emailed a voucher code which can then be given to the chargepoint installer. Once the chargepoints have been installed, the installer will claim the grant.

The EV infrastructure grant for staff and fleets is for small-to-medium-sized businesses in the UK with 249 employees or less. It can help cover the cost of wider building and installation work, such as wiring and posts, that’s needed to install multiple chargepoint sockets. The work can be for sockets that are to be installed now and in the future.

The scheme covers up to 75 per cent of the cost of the work. There is a limit of £15,000 per grant and you can get up to £350 per chargepoint socket installed and £500 per parking space. L

SPONSOR’S COMMENT

Mile for mile, pound for pound, most EV use cases deliver better energy efficiency than diesel

We spend a lot of time thinking about the EV business case for our fleet customers because although the transition is largely legislation driven, it can only happen with a positive business case. The economics must balance the heavy upfront capex requirement for vehicles and infrastructure, with the operational savings (energy, maintenance etc) of EV vs. ICE. The total cost of ownership for electric versus diesel has surpassed parity for many vehicle categories, classes and use cases, particularly for high-mileage fleets. Technology is also a major factor in accelerating and optimising fleet electrification. I see an increasing number of fleets embracing new platforms that help ease their EV transitions. And with more space and less vibration, driving an EV is a job satisfaction benefit. As an EV-driver myself, I can vouch for this! L

FURTHER INFORMATION

www.vev.com

Mike Nakrani, CEO, VEV

Grosvenor Leasing’s Salary Sacrifice scheme for Ultra Low Emission Vehicles and Electric Vehicles can save your employees as much as 40% per month compared to a personal lease, with financial and environmental advantages for your business too.

Risk Free and Minimal Administration

It also comes with protection against employees leaving the company, or going on extended sick or maternity/paternity leave, and there is minimal input required to put it in place.

It means businesses can implement the scheme with complete peace of mind, and without being overwhelmed with lots of administration.

With many exciting electric cars available, such as the Tesla Model Y, Cupra Born and Polestar 2 (all shown above), now is a great time to be offering a ULEV and EV Salary Sacrifice scheme. SAVE

Benefits to Employees and Employers

Employees sacrifice a portion of their gross salary in return for a fully maintained, taxed and insured company vehicle, at very competitive rates.

The employer gains by making Class 1A National Insurance savings as well as offering an additional staff benefit, at no extra cost.

For more information, why not speak to one of our Ultra Low Emission and Electric Vehicle Salary Sacrifice experts.

Telephone 01536 536 536 or email salsac@grosvenor-leasing.co.uk

Grosvenor offers a wide range of options for the electric vehicle transition

Companies want to follow their own route for switching away from fossil fuels to EVs. That is why Grosvenor Leasing offers a range of flexible solutions and services to support your fleet transition

Grosvenor Leasing has a growing range of flexible services that help companies to design their perfect route to an electrified future.

We now have a wealth of specialist funding options covering everything from new or used electric vehicles for companies through to tax-saving zeroemission car choices for all employees.

Our market-leading leasing service for new electric cars and vans supports businesses throughout the country, as a foundation of their EV switch that minimises upfront costs. If a new vehicle isn’t right for your budget, our innovative EValuate service offers a new entry point to decarbonisation for businesses, with used electric vehicles offered over flexible lease periods.

This provides all the benefits and support of leasing, with an emphasis on electric cars and vans that are two to three years old.

In addition, our market-leading salary sacrifice service enables all staff to benefit from electric vehicles. Employees can lease an electric car using their pre-tax salary to reduce the cost of sourcing a new vehicle by up to 40 per cent.

Whatever route your company takes, our 0Zone service offers expert guidance and support through every aspect of your EV journey, on the road to eliminating business transport emissions. Start your EV journey today. M

www.thegrosvenorgroup.co.uk

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Getting started on your electrification journey

Here are some topics to consider if you’re looking to write a compelling business case for EVs that wins over the accountants and the sceptics

Businesses are looking to electrify their fleet to capitalise on the carbon and commercial opportunities. The business case for such a transition should be easy, but it isn’t as obvious as many might think.

So here are some topics you may want to consider if you’re looking to write a compelling business case for fleet electrification that wins over the accountants, and the sceptics.

Firstly, get a consultancy in to review your fleet, including average miles per day, length of trips, and total cost of ownership.

Once you know what electric vehicles you will need (based on your usage), you can work out what charging infrastructure is needed. Do charge at driver homes, at work or on the go?

This will establish your cost base. Next comes revenue streams. Will you charge drivers for the electricity. Will you allow neighbouring businesses to charge at certain times of the day? What backend platform should you use?

Next comes hearts and minds – get some trial vehicles, let people drive them, listen to their feedback. Hold road shows, create EV champions, and over communicate all the time You’ll need some guidance along the way, so do not hesitate to reach out to KEBA below. M

gada@keba.com

www.keba.com

The challenges of electrifying fleets

The Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology (REA), along with members Dynamon, discuss some of the challenges fleets face when moving to an electric fleet, as well as the important factors they should consider before making the switch

As the REA, we aim to help improve the transition to electrification for fleets by providing a greater understanding of the whole energy system. As suggested by our members Dynamon in this article, we are aware that the electrification of fleets can appear complicated but there are a number of excellent companies already out there that can help ease fleet managers with the transition to electrification. We at the REA will shortly be releasing a report aimed at fleet managers to help them understand every step of the journey to electrification – from choosing the right vehicle and chargepoint, to

starting a grid reinforcement request and using renewable energy. The report will also examine how a fleet’s facilities can be turned into a revenue generator.

There is so much to think about in the transition to electric vehicles for any fleet operator, with each having their own intricacies. That’s why we need more information and a easier way to understand the process. We hope in future our report can be a helping hand in accelerating the transition to electrified fleets. Our members Dynamon go into some of these intricacies which readers will need to consider as they transition to an electric fleet.

Challenges to overcome

The transition to electrifying commercial fleets faces significant challenges primarily due to the higher purchase price of electric vehicles compared to traditional fuel-powered ones. Governments have introduced incentives and penalties to encourage adoption, but these measures may not be sustainable in the long term. Fleet managers grapple with the dilemma of balancing cost-efficiency with operational effectiveness when electrifying their fleets.

Real-world usage often deviates from WLTP range expectations, leading to lowerthan-anticipated vehicle ranges, especially considering factors like payload, highway driving, and extreme weather conditions. This discrepancy forces fleets to deploy electric vehicles in low-mileage scenarios, which isn’t cost-effective. Furthermore, installing charge points at a 1:1 ratio per vehicle in fleet depots is impractical due to space constraints and high costs.

Predicting energy usage throughout the day is crucial for supporting electric vehicles in fleets, considering factors such as overnight charging and availability of charging infrastructure at drivers’ homes. This becomes more complex when drivers

Predicting energy usage throughout the day is crucial for supporting electric vehicles in fleets, considering factors such as overnight charging and availability of charging infrastructure at drivers’ homes

lack access to home chargers, requiring expensive public charging solutions. Accurate estimation of energy requirements, including home and public charging, is essential to determine the economic viability of transitioning existing vehicles to electric.

In conclusion, the electrification of commercial fleets requires careful consideration of cost-efficiency and operational demands. While incentives and penalties may provide short-term stimuli, long-term sustainability hinges on practical solutions for charging infrastructure, realistic range expectations, and accurate energy usage predictions. M

www.r-e-a.net

Each EV fleet is bespoke.

We’ll assess, design and build yours .

We’ll right-size your vehicle requirements, chargers, infrastructure & power based on your journeys & schedules.

The first step is a fleet assessment report.

Request your Fleet Electrification Report.

Get started

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Fleet electrification is not simple … but it can be simplified

With the net-zero clock ticking, planning for fleet electrification is underway. Fleet owners are seeking the expertise needed to navigate this business change involving cross-functional teams, new tools and new skills. An EV fleet requires effective integration of vehicles, charging infrastructure, and energy sources, but it’s also a new style of fleet operations managing energy demand and charging scheduling

Fleet assessment and planning

The planning stage of a new EV fleet is arguably the most critical, encompassing the business case, identifying resources and defining a phased implementation plan. The first step is to analyse existing fleet telematics and get a comprehensive picture of how the fleet operates in terms of journeys, vehicles and schedules. This will identify which vehicles can be electrified first and the optimum phasing for the rest of the implementation plan.

Design to fit operational patterns

Detailed consideration must be given to rightsize the new EV fleet based on operational needs. A data-led approach avoids the risk of over-spending and provides the optimum charging infrastructure for a fleet. It is not a case of one charger for every vehicle - a mistake caused by lack of data-informed planning. From the number of vehicles and chargers, to charging scheduling, power supply and energy demand, the fleet must be configured to ensure maximum operational efficiency. Over-investing in unnecessary

charging infrastructure, for example, is not uncommon; in some cases, up to 20 per cent.

Optimise power infrastructure

Energy is typically the primary source of complexity for a fleet transition although not always anticipated early enough. While selecting the right vehicles is important, driving energy efficiency, controlling charging spikes, sourcing green energy and on-site renewables are critical success factors. Intelligent off-grid solutions such as solar power generation, and a smart energy management system will be essential to improve TCO (total cost of ownership).

Develop EV expertise

Bringing in specialists to anticipate and resolve the inevitable challenges in transitioning to an EV fleet will prove to be a good investment in the short and long term. Expertise also needs to be transferred to internal teams to support ongoing EV fleet operations, and fleets must upskill fleet managers and drivers to adjust to the electric age. This includes data-management capabilities, energy management and driving efficiency. Done effectively, the transition to EVs can enhance operational effectiveness and maximise cost-benefit for a fleet’s daily operations. M

Moving forward to drive change, together

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Drive the change with Leasys to know more about electric mobility

Leasys is committed to simplifying fleet electrification to ensure the switch is smooth and effective, and gives you the flexibility you need

With new ICE vehicles no longer being sold after 2035, many fleets will be thinking about switching to electric and embracing new, sustainable mobility with all the benefits and flexibility of long-term rental.

Whilst many fleets may feel daunted at making the switch, with careful planning and support, transitioning to electric with Leasys could provide all the flexibility you need.

Being part of Stellantis enables us to provide a range of new mobility solutions to suit your individual needs and our team of experts and industry-leading strategic partners can work with you to provide a best-in-class experience. This will help you to evaluate your current fleet, identify the right type of vehicle to suit your electrification journey, and to carry out

a whole life cost analysis to demonstrate the total cost of running your fleet.

Working with Leasys will also allow you to assess your current contracts so you can plan your transition all in one go, or progressively. We will help you review charging possibilities and introduce strategic partnerships to help ease anxiety, as well as support educating and training your drivers, and discuss a whole range of connected services.

In short, Leasys is committed to simplifying your mobility and planning your electric transition with confidence so it’s smooth and effective. M FURTHER

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With Webfleet you get it done.

You know where you want to take your business. We give you the power to get there. Reduce fuel usage, improve safety, boost productivity – no matter the focus, Bridgestone’s globally trusted fleet management solution gives you the data insights and tools you need to make it happen.

EXPERT PANEL

STARTING YOUR EV JOURNEY

Switching a fleet of ICE vehicles over to electric can seem daunting. Selecting the right vehicles, installing chargepoints, using the public charging network, educating drivers and changing fleet management processes are part of the change. But there is a lot of support and advice out there. Our expert panelists share some key information

Figures show time and again that it is the fleet market driving the uptake of electric vehicles. In March 2024, the SMMT showed that registrations of battery electric vehicles rose by 3.8 per cent, with only fleets showing any volume growth. Registrations of new battery electric vans (BEVs) are also continuing to rise, up 14.7 per cent to 2,906 units in March.

While the movement is heading in the right direction, there are still many organisations that have not made the move to electric.

Frequent reasons cited include high upfront costs, lack of suitable vehicles, and the limitations of the public charging infrastructure. The recent influx of EV “scare stories” is also hampering efforts, with the Association of fleet Professionals (AFP) saying that handling this misinformation is becoming a key task for fleet managers.

Regarding electric vans, the SMMT says that the lack of a rapid delivery of vansuitable public charging points, together with the cost of VAT on public charging being four times higher than private or home charging, could be hampering uptake.

While the government may have delayed the ban on the sale new petrol and diesel cars and vans to 2035, the zero emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate states that all new vehicles will have to be electric by 2035. Add to this, the Social Corporate Responsibility element, fleet operators really should begin the move to electrification.

We speak to our expert panelists Richard Parker, Webfleet’s EV consultant at Bridgestone Mobility Solutions, and Amanda Payne, strategic partnership manager at ElectriX, for some advice on getting started. E

Starting your EV Journey Expert Panel

EXPERT PANELIST

Richard Parker, Webfleet EV consultant UKI, Bridgestone Mobility Solutions

Richard Parker has 23 years of experience in the fleet industry. In the last seven years, he has been committed to developing his knowledge in decarbonising fleets, including the successful adoption of zeroemission vehicles. Richard is devoted to assisting fleets in all endeavours to minimise the impact of transport on the climate and environment.

F For those that haven’t begun any form of fleet electrification, what are the most important considerations when looking at the business case?

For UK fleet operators who are contemplating electrification but haven’t yet started, the first step is to thoroughly assess the total cost of ownership (TCO).

This includes not just the upfront vehicle purchase price, but also ongoing costs such as energy consumption, maintenance costs, tax incentives and potential future regulatory requirements.

Critically, fleet management platforms can play a vital role in accurately evaluating TCO. By leveraging telematics data, operators can gain insights into vehicle usage patterns. This data is invaluable for determining the feasibility of EVs within

Allowing drivers to test drive electric vehicles can help demystify the technology

specific operational contexts and can help predict energy consumption more accurately than traditional methods.

Moreover, telematics solutions can assist in identifying which vehicles in a fleet are operationally best suited for electrification.

The availability of charging infrastructure, both publicly and at the workplace, is also crucial. Planning for infrastructure needs early can help avoid future challenges.

Finally, consider the environmental benefits of electrification and the positive impact on your company’s brand image, with increasing numbers of business customers valuing sustainability.

Such thorough evaluation will help ensure that the electric transition is not only feasible, but that it can deliver long term business benefits.

What can employers do to ensure driver acceptance and positivity towards their EVs?

Driver acceptance is pivotal to a successful electric fleet transition. Employers can foster positivity and confidence by investing in training initiatives that address any concerns drivers might have about vehicle range or charge point availability.

Offering drivers the opportunity to test drive EVs can also help demystify the technology and help to showcase their benefits.

Dedicated EV management solutions can help play a crucial role in supporting drivers during the transition. They can significantly reduce range anxiety, for example, by optimising route planning with tools that take account of battery levels, capacity, average energy consumption and charge point locations. But above all else, good communication is vital. Employers should look to establish open driver feedback channels to help address any ongoing concerns, enabling adjustments to be made where necessary.

Highlighting the environmental benefits and the role that drivers can play in achieving sustainability goals can also go a long way to boosting morale and acceptance levels. Furthermore, ensuring that drivers have access to a robust support

network, including easy-to-use charging infrastructure and maintenance services, will help to alleviate practical concerns.

If it’s decided that workplace charging needs to be installed, what are the key points to consider before embarking on an infrastructure project?

Before installing workplace charging infrastructure, it’s crucial to conduct a needs assessment to understand the scale of the requirement. This involves calculating the number of charging points needed, based on the size of the fleet and anticipated growth. Assessing the types of chargers (slow, fast, rapid or ultra-rapid) that best suit a fleet’s operational needs is also essential.

Engaging with a qualified professional to evaluate the site’s existing electrical capacity and the feasibility of the installation can be an important next step, along with planning for future scalability should not be overlooked. Consider the availability of government grants or incentives to offset installation costs, and last but not least, it’s important to think about the user experience, ensuring that charging is convenient and accessible for all drivers.

What support is out there for those looking to electrify their fleet?

There are several avenues of support for organisations looking to electrify their fleet.

Government incentives, such as the Plug-In Van Grant and the Workplace Charging Scheme, can provide financial assistance to offset the costs of purchasing EVs and installing charging infrastructure.

Bridgestone Mobility Solutions’ innovative EV Services Platform, meanwhile, offers a unique ecosystem that integrates solutions from different mobility and energy providers into a single platform. Businesses can access everything from energy management and battery analytics to fleet management and EV charging, routing and planning solutions.

Practical support can be garnered from networking with other businesses that have undergone electrification. At Webfleet’s recent EV Lounge event, for example, organic veg box company Riverford shared insights on the importance of advanced planning for onsite power upgrades for charging infrastructure. And this summer, Fleet Decarbonisation Live is set to act as a further catalyst for change, offering insights and tools to help businesses navigate the path to sustainability.

Additionally, assistance with planning and implementation is often available from industry bodies, manufacturers and EV service providers, while some local councils may have specific schemes or additional funding available. E

Starting your EV Journey Expert Panel

EXPERT PANELIST

Amanda Payne, strategic partnership manager, ElectriX

Amanda is an experienced strategic relationships manager and EV owner with an extensive knowledge of the electric car industry. She previously worked for LV= General Insurance for 30 years before moving across to ElectriX, where she works closely with their partners and supports the team in raising the profile of the business.

F For those that haven’t begun any form of fleet electrification, what are the most important considerations when looking at the business case?

The Companies Act 2006 requires large and medium-sized companies to report on the business’s environmental impact on an annual basis. So, it’s no surprise that organisations are looking at what they can do differently to focus on Net Zero, Sustainability and a good ESG strategy. Attracting and retaining talent within organisations has also changed. More people look for benefits and perks that an organisation can offer. A recent survey showed 83 per cent of employees are more invested in organisations that can align themselves with environmental goals, demonstrate corporate social responsibility, whilst

EV salary sacrifice is an affordable way to switch to electric with savings of up to 40 per cent, low running costs, environmental benefits through helping to improve local air quality and further cost savings through exemption from ULEZ and clean air zone charges

also playing their part in reducing carbon emissions and combatting climate change. General salary sacrifice schemes are now adopted by over 60 per cent of UK businesses with perks ranging from childcare to gym memberships.

EV salary sacrifice is an affordable way to switch to electric with savings of up to 40 per cent, low running costs, environmental benefits through helping to improve local air quality and further cost savings through exemption from ULEZ and clean air zone charges. It is however important for organisations and their employees to understand key elements of switching to an EV, such as the features, range and charging.

It’s important that the drivers that will be switching to an EV are confident and accepting of their new vehicle. What can employers do to ensure driver acceptance and positivity? There are still myths around driving electric vehicles such as the vehicle models, battery range and charging. We help to bust these myths when speaking to organisations as the costs to run an EV are surprisingly lower than people think.

Clear communication with employees who will be driving electric vehicles is key; understanding what kind of mileage they’ll be doing, and where and how they will charge is critical.

If home charging is not an option, there are now many tablet/smartphone apps to locate chargers on any driving route whether this is small or longer journeys.

With over 55k public chargers across the UK, there are plenty of options to choose from!

And once you’re driving electric, it’s hard, if not impossible, to go back to anything else!

If it’s decided that workplace charging needs to be installed, what are the key points to consider before embarking on an infrastructure project?

It will be important to consider whether installing chargers in the workplace is an option and how this would work. Research would need to be carried out, inclusing finding out if permission from the landlords is needed, the electricity provider/bill payer and how the chargers would work (e.g for employees only or the wider public).

There is a government grant available, run by the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) and administered by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). The grant covers up to 75 per cent of the total costs of the purchase and installation of EV charge points (inclusive of VAT), capped at a maximum of £350 per socket, and 40 sockets across all sites per applicant.

What help and support is out there for organisations looking to electrify their fleet or take on electric company cars?

ElectriX offer an all-inclusive package of electric car, optional home charger and insurance making it easy for organisations to make the switch.

Through our lease specialists, CBVC we offer over 100 electric car models from more than

The government grant covers up to 75 per cent of the total costs of the purchase and installation of EV charge points, inclusive of VAT

30 manufacturers – many available within just 30 days. Through our partner Indra we provide smart home chargers to energise every journey and we provide bespoke insurance too.

We provide some smart features such as a driver App for everything vehicle related and charging at the most cost-effective times. With our tailored approach to risk, we can also safeguard your business with the most flexible range of protection options should employees leave.

In addition to the grants from government as explained previously, there is a wide range of support available including dedicated account support from Electrix, leasing support from our partner CBVC and home smart charging support from our partner Indra. M

FURTHER INFORMATION

webfleet.com

lvelectrix.co.uk

Starting your EV Journey Expert Panel

Behind Women Drive Electric

Women Drive Electric was created as welcoming online community of female EV drivers and fleet professionals to discuss all subjects relating to electric vehicles in a safe and supportive environment. Co-founders George Thurman and Michelle Breffitt discuss the barriers females can come across when buying an EV, and how to create more gender balance in the fleet sector

Please tell us about your background and experience?

George: My journey to electric began when my husband Adam opened EV Bodyshops in Enfield; a future ready site for EV accident repair. It was rather a wild ride to start with, but I soon loved the cleanness of both the drive and the feel of electric vehicles. I hated filling up with fuel, so it was all a bonus for me. I am now business development manager for the Bodyshop and love my role in the industry; it’s a fresh, innovative space and the people are collaborative and open. I have plenty of access to different makes and models and enjoy sharing my thoughts and answering questions from our community.

My background is customer service with 20 years in the skies and it still runs through the heart of everything I do. Our members feel like customers, and I treat them as such, passionate about assisting them and solving problems where we can.

Michelle: I have worked in automotive since leaving school at 15, which is scarily over 25 (shhh) years ago. My dad was a panel beater by trade and with driving cars being a sign of freedom for me, it was inevitable I ended up in the industry.

Starting at what was then Lex Commercial Trucks in Derby, I moved into a sales

We found our passion was often dulled down in some groups, so we created our own community. Our uniqueness lies in the way we focussed on getting EV industry knowledgeable females into the group too so questions were answered with experience and knowledge, rather than opinions and conjecture

administration then vehicle rental role at a Car dealership in Burton, then moved into fleet sales at Pentagon Vauxhall in Derby. Desperate to earn money and knowing no qualifications meant no progression, I completed NVQs while working and regularly covered the showroom reception at weekends to get some retail front of house experience and extra pennies as a 19 year old living on my own. My determination paid off in the form of a van sales position in the business centre, selling cars and vans to local companies, learning even more about leasing and the various funding options for businesses, as well as the tax advantages.

As the internet was becoming a thing, I was asked to work alongside the marketing director to set up an ‘internet sales department’ and help with updating the website with used stock and new vehicle offers. This exploded as we E

F were very early adopters, and using the marketing budget from traditional press and radio, a new department was born that Vauxhall called a ‘Business Development Centre’. We took control over the marketing and could see the resulting sales enquiries and website traffic which led us to implement enquiry and

appointment tracking for the entire group’s showrooms across the Midlands and North West. This department grew to 20 staff working a sevem day rota, with enquiries and sales worth millions to the business.

I decided to leave Pentagon just before Covid in 2019 to focus on being a mum and then joined MotaClarity, which is a disability motoring website with information about the Motabiity scheme and wheelchair adapted vehicles. My role was relationship manager, looking after automotive and adaptation company clients who are partnered with us for advertising and PR.

What was the thinking behind setting up Women Drive Electric and what’s its purpose?

Both: Purely to provide help and support in the beginning and somewhere safe to show off your wheels! We found our passion was often dulled down in some groups, so we created our own community. Our uniqueness lies in the way we focussed on getting EV Industry knowledgeable females into the group too so questions were answered with experience and knowledge, rather than opinions and conjecture. Its purpose is to project a positive factual experience of living with an EV while having some fun in a safe community.

What makes females ideal fleet managers when tasked with the move to electrification?

Both: Female fleet managers coming into the role actually achieve better results –they are more open to change; good at communication and they build relationships well. Juggling a matrix management style, much of this transition relies upon lots of different stakeholders, and when looking at mobility, this becomes more of an HR reward and benefit remit.

What are some of the barriers that female consumers come across when buying an electric vehicle?

Both: It’s mainly the Russian roulette of how they will be welcomed in a showroom or for a test drive. There are some fantastic sales people in car dealerships but unfortunately there are too many terrible stories of being ignored in favour of a male partner, not being respected as a decision maker and the expectation that we only care about the colour of a car. To add to this, mainstream car dealerships can be challenging to get a test drive if you are using

George Thurman

Michelle Breffitt

a salary sacrifice or getting a company car that won’t be ordered through them – this is a problem for men and women alike though.

Transport/fleet is still quite a male dominated industry – how can there be more gender balance in the sector and why is this important?

Both: The way to get gender balance is to work with our male allies to create a constant inclusive and respectful workplace. This will then attract more females to join the fleet and automotive industry and tip the scales to a more equal balance.

Flexible working conditions such as hybrid or flexi-time are useful for any parent, but nonautomotive experience and transferable skills need to be thought about when job descriptions or ads are being written. Even where job ads are placed can impact how many male and female applicants are received.

Women are perfect for fleet roles; we are often more open to change, comfortable asking for help, can solve problems, communicate

effectively to build relationships, and we juggle stressful situations; all aspects females do naturally.

What is the future plans you have for Women Drive Electric?

Both: Women Drive Electric are striving to be the main source of female led content and advice for electric vehicles. We plan to build a website to cover every aspect of EV Life, steering the consumer through the stages of choosing, acquiring and living with an EV.

We eventually want to include resources to assist with charging, energy suppliers, solar energy and technology. Even if you already have an EV, we are there for you with insurance, recovery, servicing and accident repair solutions. We want to achieve all of this alongside growing our warm and welcoming community of women on Facebook, which is now over 2,000 and growing daily. M

REMOTE DIAGNOSTIC SERVICES FOR YOUR WORKSHOPS

As a Fleet Operator you are challenged with thousands of repair jobs every month, including diagnostic scans, coding, programming and ADAS calibrations. Thanks to Jifeline Networks you can carry out vehicle diagnosis yourself using our market leading and unique infrastructure. If you cannot perform a particular programming yourself, you can outsource this service to one of our diagnostic partners in the UK. Our network supports remote connection to any vehicle in your fleet, no matter where that vehicle is located.

• Self service for your own fleet

• Better control of costs

• Less downtime of your vehicles

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Time to take back control of your fleet

Jifeline Networks allows fleet operators to take back control of their fleet in the field of coding and programming, allowing them to use their own specialists and tools to keep jobs in-house and vehicles on the road

As a fleet operator, you are challenged with thousands of repair jobs every month, including diagnostic scans, coding, programming and ADAS calibrations.

Thanks to Jifeline Networks you can carry out vehicle diagnosis yourself using our market leading and unique infrastructure that supports remote connection to any vehicle in your fleet, no matter where that vehicle is located. Utilise your own specialists and tools and keep your jobs inhouse, allowing you better control of costs and ensuring less downtime of your vehicles.

Use your own specialists and tools

Becoming a partner of Jifeline Networks is really simple. The most important steps you have to take are organisational: making sure that you use your best diagnostic specialists and use your current diagnostics tools across multiple locations all through Jifeline infrastructure.

This consists of a ‘local interface’ with a corresponding personalised dashboard to receive the jobs with the vehicle side technician in your satellite locations or partner companies using a ‘remote interface’; a Jifeline device that is connected to the vehicle with the OBD2 plug and linked to any technicians via the cloud This podcast shows you the opportunities of taking back control of your own fleet in the field of coding and programming. M

FURTHER INFORMATION

www.jifeline.com

Counting down to the A-to-Z EV Rally

Taking place 1-5 July, the EV Rally returns this year with an A-to-Z theme, covering over 14,000 miles while visiting towns, cities and checkpoints in alphabetical order

The EV Rally, sponsored by Lex Autolease, is designed to put electric vehicles through their paces and test the public charging network.

With over 50 electric vehicles taking part, for 2024 teams will cover over 14,000 miles following an A-to-Z theme – visiting towns and check points in alphabetical order.

The aim is to show that electric vehicles are viable and that the charging network is up to the job, as well as highlighting areas for improvement and uncovering any challenges that need to be overcome.

Now in its fourth year, the Rally follows the success of the EV Rally Of Scotland (EVROS) in 2021 and the Great British EV Rally in 2022, which covered the length of Britain, from John O Groats to Lands End. In 2023, the Rally visited all capital cities of the UK and Ireland.

The route

Taking on the retro theme of using A-to-Z atlases for navigation, the Rally will visit towns, cities and check points in alphabetical order.

Day one will start at the AA’s Oldbury Innovation Centre and will cover just under 270 miles until the overnight stop at Carlisle.

On day two, participants will head east to Gateshead, then south towards Sheffield. Checkpoints include the Innovation Hub at Drax Electric Vehicles, a charging top-up at a Compleo UK site, with the final destination being Mercedes-Benz Trucks’ Tankersley offices.

The third day heads towards Cambridge, via Norwich. Check points include a charge at myenergi’s premises and GRIDSERVE’s Electric Forecourt in Norwich.

Teams will leave Cambridge on day four and head east to a brand new EV charging

facility, featuring a wind turbine, battery storage, eBus/eHGV capability and ultra-rapid chargers from Arnold White Group. The route then takes the Rally southbound, past West London, before heading south-west, visiting Virta Charging at BMW UK & MINI’s premises.

The final leg of the Rally on day five will cover more than 300 miles as teams head towards towards Exeter, Yatton and Zouch, before visiting Chester and finishing at the impressive Cawley House facility, a hub from headline partner, Lex Autolease.

Teams and partners

Lead sponsor’s Lex Autolease are entering a team and will be on hand to offer expertise in the leasing and financing of EVs, as well as hosting the ‘wrap’ party at the finish line.

Maxus UK, as the event logistics partner, will provide the Rally’s logistics crews with electric vans, and will also be participating as a team.

Europcar is the Rally’s vehicle provider and will host the EV rally’s senior management and official media crews with electric vehicles.

Paua returns for a third successive year with their own team and as EV charge card partners, providing teams with an RFID card solution to access over 43,000 charge point connectors.

Technology partner Webfleet returns for their fourth Rally with their own team. They will also fit telematics solutions to some of the participating vehicles to give the Rally vital inside into driver behaviour, including energy use, charging status and driver safety.

The AA has been part of the Rally since the very beginning. As roadside assistance partner, they will offer teams the reassurance that if something was to go wrong, they would be in safe hands.

Drivetech is the Rally’s driver training partner. As well as participating as their own team, they will offer eco and safetydriving tips on the morning of each day.

Team IVECO returns this year following their participation last year where they demonstrated some impressive towing capabilities of their eDaily.

Involved since the very first Rally, the National Grid are entering a team, with fleet manager legend Lorna McAtear behind the wheel.

First time participants Drax Electric Vehicles are entering a team, and the Rally will pass by their Innovation Hub in Selby as one of the checkpoints.

Another returning participant is Team OVO, who will be on hand to explain the importance of renewable energy in the EV narrative.

Demonstrating how HGVs are progressing towards net zero, Team Mercedes-Benz Trucks UK is returning this year. Last year, the team demonstrated the capabilities of their eActros - with it being the only vehicle to not have to charge on the first day.

Team DAF are also returning, to showcase the capabilities of their electric HGVs.

New to the UK market this year, EV charging company Compleo are entering the Rally with a team. The Rally will also be visiting one of Compleo’s charging installations on day two.

Other new teams this year include Tusker, who will also be on hand to discuss EV salary sacrifice, and Women Drive Electric, who are participating with an all female team to spread the message of the importance of gender diversity in the fleet sector.

Another debutant is renewable energy company myenergi, and on day three of the Rally, teams will head to one of their state-of-the-art facilities.

BMW and Mini are also entering teams this year to showcase the capabilities of their electric models.

The Rally will unfold across social media, with John Curtis and Sara Sloman from the EV Cafe providing coverage, as well as coverage from digital media partners Transport and Energy. For more information on the Rally, including in-depth information about the route, visit the website below. M

FURTHER INFORMATION

www.ev-rally.co.uk

Preparing for the switch

The finished vehicle logistics industry is undergoing a seismic change as it starts to transport increased volumes of electric vehicles for both the fleet and retail market. James Lee, managing director at JLL Vehicle Distribution, explains how the company is preparing its fleet and staff for the switch

Having to transport increased volumes of EVs in the home delivery sector for both the fleet and retail market, the finished vehicle logistics industry is looking at ways to adapt and decarbonise.

For some, the transition from ICE to EVs could prove difficult because the old way works, so preparing to switch is somewhat inconvenient. For example, retraining drivers to become efficient in the handling of an EV due to its increased operational complexity must be carried out. There are also additional costs, in terms of finances and in time, which only heightens the apprehensiveness of some operators. It may also be the case though, that the operator feels there is a

lack of availability of commercial vehicles able to meet their needs and ICE vehicles simply serve their business, better. But the fact remains, all operators must switch at some point, whether they want to or not.

Charging considerations

Charging electric vehicles can be a concern for fleets. They could adopt depot chargepoints to help support the smooth efficient running of vehicles, but also to alleviate the possibility of issues that can arise with public charging, such as queues and time spent waiting.

However, there are barriers to implementing this such as ownership of premises, cost and driver resistance. It’s safe to say

that affordability and the UK’s charging infrastructure remain significant barriers to fleets looking to fully switch to electric.

Limited accessibility to charging is one of the top two concerns for operators, next to high costs. Being unable to efficiently charge fleets potentially leaves operators in a position to suffer productivity losses. Therefore, managing charging is vital, and the best way to support this is for operators to implement the use of a software solution that can help with aspects of EV driving such as planning charging needs, vehicle range, route charging availability, and most convenient times to charge at those points.

Depot charge points are of course great, but for long-distance operations, the use of public charging is inevitable, so to have the software available to help support the journey will only serve to enhance the productivity of the business.

We can’t forget one of the most common barriers to switching includes the high upfront cost of an EV, especially when businesses are looking to buy more than one vehicle, as well as uncertain residual values (RVs) of EVs coupled with an underdeveloped resale market.

But, when operators actually consider the total cost of ownership (TCO) benefits of EVs compared to their ICE counterparts, EVs are in fact cheaper over the vehicle lifetime. And the rise in last-mile delivery costs for ICE vehicles prohibited from entering clean air zones, makes EVs seem all the more desirable. EVs, in those incidences, are helping operators run sustainably.

Preparing for the change

At JLL, we specialise in boutique and EV vehicle delivery solutions for large dealer groups, vehicle brokers and multiple brands, and provide delivery and vehicle transfer services to corporate and dealers alongside undertaking customer handovers.

With such a varied client base, we are proactively preparing for the changing market around electric vehicle deliveries, and while we do not envisage a major upheaval in moving EVs, we do feel the sector still needs to refocus its fleet mix to support the transportation of battery electric vehicles. The heavier loads mean that, although we do not believe there is a major challenge in moving EVs, we do need to prepare for the change and stay ahead of the game by altering our transporter mix, away from light

commercial transporters to transporters with increased load capacity to account for the weight of electric vehicles compared to ICE.

For example, an electric MG4 weighs the same as a petrol Audi A6. So even though our capabilities remain unchanged at the moment, with the continual rise in EV deliveries, we will undoubtedly need to adapt and heavily invest in new larger trucks capable of carrying two large EVs, while ensuring that they operate legally in respect of both GVW and GTW.

Driver training

We have also invested in driver training to upskill our delivery service and sponsored staff to gain the correct licence category to drive the larger trucks and trailers. This has been well-received by staff who appreciate the acknowledgement of their abilities and professionalism, as well as the investment into their development and career.

Enhancing the doorstep experience is vital, and this involves educating drivers on the process of moving EVs, in terms of delivery planning, handing EVs and training them on vehicle handovers – for both customers and dealers.

Making sure drivers are happy and comfortable with the changes in vehicle delivery is key to ensuring the delivery and handover are a positive experience for all.

It is quite ironic, however, that the sector is delivering EVs on diesel trucks. This is something else we have to look at changing, but some factors do not really make the investment of an EV transporter viable for JLL at this time - either the range, lack of truck charging infrastructure, or capital cost, is currently too prohibitive. But things do change quickly, so we do believe we’ll be one of the early adopters of greener transport solutions in the future – when efficiency rises and costs become more manageable.

The bottom line is that operators need to adapt ‘before’ the switch, that way, they have had time to familiarise themselves with new systems, work out any issues that could arise during the collect and delivery process, and have retrained drivers in time for the switch.

Adopting technology and software into the day-to-day running of the business will help support a more efficiently run business and establishing a system that has been trialled, tested and knows it works, will instil trust in your capabilities as a logistics operator with customers, and ensure a steady client base. L

Road-to-Zero Roundtable: North East

On 14 March 2024, GREENFLEET hosted a roundtable at Headingley Stadium in Leeds, which gathered public and private sector fleets, as well as industry professionals, to discuss net-zero plans and progress

Hosted by GREENFLEET ambassador Kate Armitage, the roundtable discussed net-zero policy, strategy, challenges and best practice.

Representatives from Eric Wright Group were present and spoke about their fleet electrification progress. With company car policies that incentivise a switch to BEVs, 72 per cent of the company car fleet is now fully electric. However, they spoke of how it has been complex supporting drivers with a mix of work, home and public charging.

E.ON was also present and shared how they are making good progress with fleet electrification for both their cars and vans, as well as how their services help fleets with home, work and on-the-road charging solutions.

The roundtable discussed the particular challenges for operators of medium to heavy duty vehicles, where there is a lack of clarity around when the vehicles would be available and when suitable charging infrastructure will be deployed.

Smaller hauliers are facing very tough trading conditions, with some 500 hauliers going into administration last year. Roundtable delegates discussed how it may be difficult for them to meet the cost of switching to electric. And while biofuels offer an interesting interim solution, more needs to be done to educate fleets and create confidence in these fuels. L

Watch the full roundtable video below.

The Electric Fleet Race

GREENFLEET has become the official media partner for Rightcharge’s Electric Fleet Race – a monthly insight into which UK organisation is leading the way in terms of Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) numbers on fleet. We look at which organisations have been recognised so far

There are now over one million battery electric cars and more than 60,000 battery electric vans on UK roads, according to the SMMT. And we know fleets have played a massive part in this success.

The Electric Fleet Race aims to shine a light on which fleets are doing best in terms of BEV numbers nationally, and broken down into sector.

Currently, The National Grid has taken the top spot nationally for the amount of electric cars on fleet – surpassing 1,700, and OVO scooped first place nationally for the number of electric vans, at 81 per cent.

Broken down into sectors

The London Borough of Islington is currently leading the Electric Fleet Race in the Local Authority / Council category.

With over 90 electric vehicles, including cars, vans and specialist vehicles, the council is confidently progressing towards its goal of having a fully zero-emission fleet by 2030.

The London Borough of Islington has also picked up the award in the Specialist Vehicle category, in recognition of its electric refuse collection vehicles, cage tippers, street sweepers and electric minibuses.

The current leader in the Electric Fleet Race in the Construction Sector is Speedy Hire. The organisation has over 230 electric vehicles on fleet, including cars, vans and trucks - as well as

over 500 PHEV company cars. What’s more, the company has chargers at over 20 sites - with plans to have them in every location by the end of 2024.

With more electric vehicles on order, the company is steadily progressing towards its ambitions to achieve net zero carbon emissions before 2040.

Other leading organisations include Thomas Hardie Commercials, who is winning the Electric Fleet Race in the Transport sector with over forty electric vehicles, and Auto Windscreens who is leading in the Services category.

Why enter?

The Electric Fleet Race – Powered by Rightcharge, aims to celebrate fleet electrification and reveal who is leading the way in electric vehicle numbers. Entry into the fleet race is by submission, and organisation of all sizes and sectors are encouraged to enter to share as many positive stories as possible.

The leading fleets in each category will receive a digital award certificate to share with colleagues, customers and industry, plus £100 in Rightcharge credit. M

Enter the Electric Fleet Race for free here: www.fleetrace.co.uk

Go electric and feel at home in the city!

Introducing the New Generation DAF XB Electric – the truck of choice for the zero-emission city. Clean, quiet, extremely safe, and highly manoeuvrable, the DAF XB is ideal on busy urban roads for everything, from local distribution to refuse collection. In today’s eco-friendly cities, the new DAF XB Electric feels right at home! WWW.STARTTHEFUTURE.COM

The future of zero emission HGVs

The government is investing £200 million in four projects that aim to put zero-emission trucks on the road, as well as the charging and refuelling infrastructure needed. Robyn Quick takes a look at the projects

Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) are essential to so many of the UK’s industries, yet they are one of the most polluting modes of transport in terms of contributing to carbon emissions.

While HGVs made up a much smaller proportion of the vehicle miles compared to cars (six per cent), their emissions were disproportionately greater (21 per cent), according to government statistics.

The UK has targets of ending the sale of new non-zero emission vans and trucks under 26 tonnes by 2035 and trucks over 26 tonnes by 2040.

But with this comes significant challenges due to the size and weight of such vehicles, and the distances they need to travel.

The future of the freight sector can seem daunting in terms of transitioning to zero emission vehicles, so we have broken it down to show you a glimpse of what it could look like.

What is being done to make this happen?

The UK government is investing £200 million into projects that are testing zero-emission trucks and deploying the charging infrastructure they require. Delivered in partnership with Innovate UK, the funding from the zero emission HGV and infrastructure demonstrator programme (known as ZEHID) will put a total of 370 zero emission trucks on the road, as well as 57 refuelling and electric charging sites, through four innovative green projects. The government said the funding will help supermarkets such as Sainsbury’s and Marks & Spencer lower their transport emissions while protecting them from rising delivery costs associated with changing petrol and diesel prices. This could help prevent price hikes across supermarkets, allowing people to save money on food and groceries to help with the cost of living. E

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F What are the projects the government is investing in?

There are four different projects that will be funded under the zero emission HGV and infrastructure demonstrator programme. They are all based across the UK, ranging from Birmingham to London.

One project that will be receiving the funding is GRIDSERVE’s Project Electric Freightway, which aims to put in place highpowered charging sites at motorway service areas, truck stops and commercial depots, as well as a fleet of up to 140 eHGVs.

Within the first two years of this sevenyear project, GRIDESERVE plans to install over 200 high power chargers across key motorway service areas and more than 10 commercial depot charging locations. They will also be deploying at least two one megawatt capacity high power chargers.

Under EU laws, HGV drivers must not exceed 4.5 hours of driving without taking a 45-minute break. GRIDSERVE said their project will provide truck drivers with the most powerful EV chargers for these 45-minute windows so that they don’t need to change behaviours. Data collection will run for five years to collate valuable insights into the electrification of eHGVs to support the ongoing transition. The project will run until 2030.

One project that will be receiving funding is

GRIDSERVE’s Project Electric Freightway, which aims to put in place high-powered charging sites at motorway service areas, truck stops and commercial depots, as well as a fleet of up to 140 eHGVs

Programme director of Hitachi ZeroCarbon, James Comer, said the project is “the pioneer demonstration for the decarbonisation of the UK’s logistics industry and will tangibly test what a zero carbon future could look like.”

Sam Clarke, chief vehicle officer at GRIDSERVE, added: “In Electric Freightway, we’ll push electric HGVs to their limits to establish just what is possible, while highlighting where there is the need for process, technological or policy innovation to enable the transition to electric.”

eFREIGHT 2030

Next, we have Voltempo whose eFREIGHT 2030 project will demonstrate up to 100 battery electric HGVs in partnership with Renault Trucks, Scania E

Michael Boxwell, CEO of Voltempo charging a Renault electric truck

F and DAF. Marks and Spencer and Menzies Distribution are some of the fleet

operators confirmed to be participating.

Voltempo has also reserved ten vehicles for short term use by SMEs through leasing company Vertellus. This will help to combat any cost restrictions that create barriers to smaller fleets getting involved in testing how e-HGVs could work for their business.

The project also aims to put in place 32 new charging locations, all of which will have megawatt-charging capacity.

As well as this, Voltempo will use some funding to develop both the technology and the business case for an ultra-rapid charging hub that can be delivered to a new site and operational within hours, for both short-term trials and long-term use.

Mike Boxwell, group CEO of Voltempo, which is leading the eFREIGHT 2030 project, said: “A key part of this work will be to stretch boundaries by focusing on ‘difficult’ use cases, including long-range, multi-shift and power take-off, using data modelling to resolve challenges.”

Hydrogen power

Protium’s Hydrogen Aggregated Logistics (HyHAUL) will deploy around 30 hydrogen fuel cell HGVs onto the M4. The HGV fleet will be serviced by one fixed hydrogen refuelling station and mobile refuelling in two other locations. In the long term, the project aims to implement two additional permanent hydrogen refuelling stations in Magor and Bridgend, alongside additional hydrogen conversion projects along the motorway.

Rebecca Zeitlin from Protium said the project is still in its initial stages. She said: “We are still open to new interest, so we encourage hauliers who are interested in accessing hydrogen fuel cell HGVs to get in touch.”

As part of their zero emissions aim, Protium has recently supported a hydrogen FCEV van trial in Wales.

Project Zero Emission North (ZEN) Freight is the fourth project to receive government funding. It will demonstrate up to 70 battery electric and 30 hydrogen fuel HGVs. Eddie Stobart and Royal Mail are just two of the fleet operators participating in this scheme.

Why is it so hard to make HGVs carbon free?

There are several reasons HGVs are difficult to transform into a zero emission vehicle. Firstly, HGVs are (obviously) much heavier

than smaller vehicles, and can weigh up to 44 tonnes. Using the usual batteries to electrify vehicles is not powerful enough to power to such a heavy load.

It is also very expensive to replace combustion engines with electric or hydrogen fuelled vehicles, so some companies may be more hesitant to make the change without cheaper options. While they are expected to be cost effective by 2030, many say this is not soon enough to generate real change within the industry.

There are interim solutions that can help HGVs greatly reduce their emissions, such as

hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO). This fuel is made from waste cooking oil, crops and animal fats that would otherwise go to waste. Unlike hydrogen fuel cells, HVO works with the diesel engines that fleets already use, so there is no initial cost to buy new vehicles. However, it is more expensive than diesel and not as sustainable as hydrogen batteries.

Natural gas can be used as a road fuel either as a liquefied natural gas (LNG) or a compressed natural gas (CNG). It produces less harmful emissions than conventional fuels, as well as less nitrous oxide emissions, as well as zero particulate emissions.

The work is being done to make zero emission HGVs cost effective and fit for purpose. Electric and hydrogen powered HGVs may one day overtake their combustion engine counterparts in price and power. This shift would have an excellent benefit for the freight sector and businesses both economically and environmentally.

Making this change to significantly reduce the sector’s impact on the environment may take some time, so acting now is critical. M

FURTHER INFORMATION

www.gov.uk

Electriffying last mile deliveries.

Installing EV charging infrastructure to power fleets on the last mile can often be complex.

Join Mer's webinar on 15 May for an insightful discussion on how to ensure your transition to an electric fleet goes smoothly.

REGISTER FOR WEBINAR

How to transform last mile deliveries

Last-mile deliveries are one of the most crucial parts of a courier’s journey, and work to cut their environmental impact is gaining traction, as Robyn Quick finds

A lot of thought and funding is put into the long process of delivering goods from long distances, but the shorter journeys are just as important.

Last mile deliveries refers to the final step of the logistics process, when goods are moved from a transportation hub to their final destination which is most often in an urban area.

There have been a variety of solutions proposed to make these last mile deliveries as carbon neutral as possible, such as using electric vans, deliveries on foot, cargo bikes and micro logistics hubs.

EIT InnoEnergy found recently that a mixed fleet of e-cargo bikes and e-vans can save urban logistics providers significant costs compared to a 100 per cent e-van fleet operation and contribute to improving overall life quality in cities.

They reported that the use of e-cargo bikes reduces the total cost per parcel compared to e-vans alone, regardless of the fleet mix and the city layout.

Using e-cargo bikes in fleets already has proven benefits. Firstly, they have a lower upfront cost compared to cars and vans, and require a lot less upkeep. They are also not very demanding on a city’s infrastructure, which is a significant plus when considering the energy savings of this.

Cargo bike sharing scheme

Cargo Bike Share was the first cargo bike rental service in the UK, and continues to operate today in London. The cargo bikes are on-street, on-demand and publicly available to businesses and residents. There are four cargo bike share hubs in Hackney with two in Shoreditch, one E

Micro logistics hubs are small, secure spaces that couriers and operators can use to receive, sort, and send deliveries in central locations

F in Stoke Newington and another on Broadway Market. Local businesses are also provided with a free four-hour training session on how to master control skills with and without cargo.

In 2019, UK parcel delivery company DPD partnered with Oxford-based manufacturer Electric Assisted Vehicles (EAV) to introduce five e-cargo bikes in London, York and Newbury. The initial tests went well, and they doubled their fleet later that year.

IKEA has an ambition of achieving 100 per cent zero emission home deliveries by 2025, and is already achieving this in cities such as Glasgow. To aid this endeavour, IKEA is investing £4.5 million in charge points for its electric delivery vehicles. What’s more, UPS has just opened a ‘micro hub’ in Cambridge city centre, that will allow electric assisted four-wheeled cycles to sustainably deliver packages.

Micro logistics hubs

Courier company Delivery Mates and Q-Park UK announced in February 2024 that they would continue to independently operate from the Pimlico micro logistics hub for a minimum of one year.

Based in the Q-Park Pimlico parking facility, the hub receives parcels from an electric van and then distributes them by electric cargo bikes in the City of Westminster and surrounding areas.

Micro logistics hubs are small, secure spaces that couriers and operators can use to receive, sort, and send deliveries in central locations, ideally by cargo bike or walking porters, to support zero-emission last-mile deliveries in the City of Westminster.

They act as a crucial step for consolidating deliveries, which can reduce the number of polluting vehicle trips and congestion, thereby improving local air quality.

After nine months of operations, the e-cargo bikes travelled total distance of more than 22.5km, which led to significant emissions reductions of more than 4,000kg of carbon dioxide, around 15,000g of nitrous oxides, and just over 300g of PM2.5 when comparing the e-cargo bikes to polluting van deliveries on the last mile.

Councillor Paul Dimoldenberg, cabinet member for city management and air quality at Westminster City Council, said: “We are immensely proud of the success of the Pimlico Micro Logistics Hub, which demonstrates the power of working together to tackle urban transport challenges.

“This project exemplifies our commitment to creating a greener, more sustainable economy while supporting local businesses and improving the quality of life for residents.

“Building on the success of the trial, Westminster City Council hopes to expand and replicate similar initiatives across the city to transform urban logistics and improve sustainability.”

The space for more hubs

As well as this, Cross River Partnership put out a call in April for available spaces in London which can be used as Urban Logistics Hubs to enable emissions free deliveries across the capital.

They asked that landlords who have some unused space consider renting it out as a logistics hub or micro site, with the aim to reduce the number of vehicle trips and congestion, to then enable deliveries to be made on an EV, by bike or on foot.

The larger logistics hubs will be accessible for electric fleets. The smaller version, known

as the micro site, functions in the same way but in a smaller space, hosting cargo bikes.

There are already a variety of logistics hubs in central London.

To be considered further across the UK, operators said the ideal large-scale logistic hubs would need to include a variety of features.

They would have to feature a floor space of at least 280 metre-squared but ideally 465 to 930 metre-squared and as much headroom as possible. Operators also suggested CCTV systems to protect assets, goods and staff, EV charging points depending on the individual fleets’ requirements, and at least a five year lease period for clients.

Micro hubs would require slightly different features. For example, shorter leases with high levels of flexibility would be preferred, as well as break clauses. The 90 to 185 metresquared floor space would be most suited for railway arches and under-utilised car parks.

Operators are still experimenting with how to lower the impact of last-mile deliveries on the environment, and e-cargo bikes, electric vans and micro logistics hubs seem to be a great start. The next challenge will be implementing these new vehicles and hubs into more rural areas across the UK. L

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Unlocking new levels of vehicle security for 2024

Following the recent management buyout and record-breaking year-on-year growth, the team at Locks 4 Vans are extremely excited to showcase the company’s latest developments at this year’s Commercial Vehicle Show, taking place from 23-25 April

With over 20 years’ experience of serving our customers an exciting new product line-up, 2024 is already exceeding expectations.   From new industry partnerships to the latest security solutions for trucks and vans, we are all set to deliver a stand experience that brings our visitors and customers right up to date with vehicle security.

This year, our newly expanded technical team will be on hand to discuss a whole range of new-to-market solutions that will improve functionality and take commercial vehicle security to a new level of strength.

At Locks 4 Vans, we are unique in our 100 per cent focus on locking and shielding solutions. We exist to innovate for the industry and deliver game-changing security products that disrupt the market and are tested to the highest environmental standards, providing peace of mind to our customers.

What’s new?

Demand for the L4V Statement Lock has more than doubled year-on-year, with the Diamond Statement Lock with its anti-drill and anticut properties taking center stage. Launching at the CV Show, this range will be further

extended in 2024 with the addition of two new products that will increase functionality and appeal to new customer sectors.

With retail installations increasing by over 60 per cent year on year, the CV Show provides the perfect opportunity to launch our new Approved Installer Network. Supported by a comprehensive training programme and working to consistently applied standards, the network will continue to deliver the highest levels of customer satisfaction in 2024 and beyond.

Our cargo product range continues to grow with new applications for truck and HGV configurations. We will be showcasing new products in this range that will bring new functionality and strength to this important sector.

Following the launch at last year’s CV Show, the award-winning L4V Alarm range is also being expanded in 2024 to include pick-up’s and even more van configurations. The integrated alarm system will once again feature on our show stand.

Camper van ownership is becoming increasingly popular for adventurous tourers. However, parking in remote locations poses a security risk. To address this issue, Locks 4 Vans are working alongside award-winning camper van company Wellhouse Leisure to develop a range of security solutions, without compromising on the styling of the vehicle.

Finally, the new L4V Electronic Slamlock will be showcased for the first time at the CV Show. With in-built functionality and easy to install application, this product will be a game changer for the delivery and logistics industry.

Visit Locks 4 Vans on stand 5E70. M

Making Legends of the Road

Legend develops products that give van drivers the safe and comfortable workspace they deserve when out on the road

Legend is an industry-leading cargo van flooring, liner, and accessory brand. Legend products are built to outlast the life of the vehicle and maximise driver safety and comfort.

We know that life on the road can be hard... drivers out on their own, overworked and undervalued – we think they deserve better.

That’s why we’ve made it our purpose to improve the ride for the Legends of the Road.

We develop products that give van drivers the workspace they deserve – van liners to mediate temperature and reduce noise, van flooring to protect against impact and accidental damage, and van accessories to safeguard, secure and defend your assets from the inside out.

We are the industry leader in fleet vehicle flooring, rubber mats, wall liners and van

accessories — and with a focus on premium lightweight, recycled materials — we’re here today, for the fleets of tomorrow.

Challenges fleets are facing

One of the biggest challenges fleets face is the cost of fuel, as well as the range of EVs. Driver safety is also an issue, as well as payload, environmental goals and in life repairs. End of contract charges must also be considered when discussing challenges for fleets right now.

Why legend over ply?

Firstly, Legend is over 53 per cent lighter than ply! It doesn’t require any drilling as the floor slots into place which protects the chassis and battery if an EV. As well as this, safety features such as anti-slip surfaces promote operator and cargo safety.

The flat working surface not only maximises productivity by reducing strain on workers, but it also improves durability by protecting bare metal from impact and puncture damage with a lifetime warranty. M

FURTHER INFORMATION

www.legendsoftheroad.com

Insight into the Commercial Vehicle Show 2024

Now in its 23rd year, the Commercial Vehicle Show is taking place at the NEC in Birmingham on 23-25 April and is the place to discover the latest vans, trucks and specialist vehicles, as well as the components and services that help fleet operators achieve decarbonisation targets

With the road transport industry navigating the road to net zero, the CV Show is returning to NEC Birmingham in April 2024 in expanded form to help operators prepare their businesses for growth against a complex and ever-changing backdrop of new regulations and technology.

With the EU expected to implement new emissions standards for conventional truck and van engines from 2027 and the UK ending the sale of new non-zero emission vans and trucks under 26 tonnes by 2035 and over 26 tonnes by 2040, the commercial vehicle industry is undergoing the most radical changes in its history.

For operators, manufacturers and technicians looking to futureproof their fleets and skills, the CV Show will include an essential conference covering decarbonisation, including electrification and hydrogen, skills and recruitment, and technical updates.

What’s more, the Commercial Vehicle Show is the place to discover the latest vans, trucks and specialist vehicles, as well as the components and services that help commercial fleet operators drive efficiencies and deliver on decarbonisation targets.

Within the Show there is a Workshop Sector which showcases everything from OE E

MEV’s vehicle range of 100% electric, compact urban movers bring all the benefits of green work and play at sustainable budgets. Designed to give the user rear space and easy access to small parking spaces to enhance your daily duties in restricted zones.

Green fleets, thinking and looking outside the norm?

While many companies focus solely on selling vehicles, MEV takes a holistic approach. We understand that the transition to electric mobility involves more than just switching to electric vehicles, it’s about creating an entire ecosystem that supports sustainable transportation even down to the configurations supplied.

MEV offers a comprehensive range of solutions to facilitate this transition. Their website provides valuable resources for potential electric vehicle owners, including information on charging infrastructure, incentives, and maintenance. MEV is not just selling vehicles; they’re empowering individuals and businesses to embrace electric mobility with confidence.

Impact on the environment

The environmental impact of electric vehicles is a significant driving force behind MEV’s mission. By promoting the

adoption of electric vehicles, MEV is contributing to a reduction in air pollution, and noise pollution. This, in turn, helps combat climate change and creates cleaner, healthier communities for all.

A sustainable future on Wheels

In a world where the urgency of addressing climate change is more evident than ever, MEV is leading the charge towards a greener, more sustainable future.

Through our commitment to mobility, our line-up of electric vehicles, and our dedication to community education, MEV is making electric mobility accessible and appealing to all. L

www.myelectricvehicle.org

F components and replacement parts to maintenance management systems, garage, workshop, and body shop equipment. And for those moving goods to be kept at a constantly controlled temperature, the Cool Chain Sector will showcase a range of refrigerated vehicles, fridge units, monitoring equipment and more.

The CV Show is hosted with its members the Institute of Road Transport Engineers (IRTE), the Road Haulage Association (RHA) and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

Seminar programme

The Commercial Vehicle Show’s new seminar programme, called The Road Ahead, will provide insight and analysis on everything from net zero fleets and regulation to workforce upskilling and wellbeing.

The new conference-style event will help fleets keep ahead of the curve in the transition to net zero road haulage, with panel discussions and Q&As featuring leading van and truck OEMs, executives from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, National Highways, the Road Haulage Association and National Grid, plus an opening address from Rt Hon Bill Esterson MP, Shadow Minister for Transport (Roads).

Future planning is now essential given van and light truck sectors are required to meet the same 2035 end-of-sale date. The Road

The Commercial Vehicle Show’s new seminar programme, called The Road Ahead, will provide insight and analysis on everything from net zero fleets and regulation to workforce upskilling and wellbeing

Ahead will provide timely tips and advice for fleets considering the next steps towards decarbonisation, as well as offering direct insight from experts on how to navigate the UK’s fast-changing regulatory landscape. The role of cutting-edge technology, including the use of artificial intelligence in fleet management, is even more paramount in futureproofing your depot sooner rather than later.

Green skills and diverse recruitment are at the core of the transition and The Road Ahead attendees will gain expert analysis on the very best strategies for recruitment, upskilling and workforce wellbeing – allowing employers to hire, train and retain the best talent. The Institute of Road Transport Engineers will open day three of the conference with a keynote on people and competencies to set the scene on why professionalism and standards are E

The Leading Electric Fuel Card

The Leading Electric Fuel Card

The Leading Electric Fuel Card

Simplifying electric vehicle charging for fleets

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Simplifying electric vehicle charging for fleets

One card

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One card

Use one card to unlock access to over 38,000 chargers, over 30+ networks.

Use one card to unlock access to over 38,000 chargers, over 30+ networks.

Use one card to unlock access to over 38,000 chargers, over 30+ networks.

Home Reimbursements

Home Reimbursements

Home Reimbursements

Accurately cover home charging by automatically making payments directly to your drivers’ home energy bills.

Accurately cover home charging by automatically making payments directly to your drivers’ home energy bills.

Accurately cover home charging by automatically making payments directly to your drivers’ home energy bills.

Automated tariff data

Automated tariff data

Automated tariff data

Tariff rates are automatically kept up-to-date wether your drivers have a smart meter, or not!

Tariff rates are automatically kept up-to-date wether your drivers have a smart meter, or not!

Tariff rates are automatically kept up-to-date wether your drivers have a smart meter, or not!

One dashboard

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View and analyse all your drivers data including charging costs and carbon data in one dashboard.

View and analyse all your drivers data including charging costs and carbon data in one dashboard.

View and analyse all your drivers data including charging costs and carbon data in one dashboard.

One invoice

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Make one monthly payment to cover all your drivers’ charging.

Make one monthly payment to cover all your drivers’ charging.

Make one monthly payment to cover all your drivers’ charging.

Try for free

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Sign up at www.rightcharge.co.uk and get a 30-day trial.

Sign up at www.rightcharge.co.uk and get a 30-day trial.

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F crucial in our industry, and how to shape the skills of the future. There will also be a special stream with would-be young apprentices to discuss the rewarding careers on offer in the sector and what industry can do to attract today’s school leavers – including a try-out of the latest virtual reality technology driving a new generation of cutting-edge training.

Susan Kitchener, executive lead, Commercial Vehicle Show, said: “The CV Show has always been the best place for industry to get a first look at the future of Britain’s fleets, from vehicle and component technology to specialist solutions and services. Now, an allnew seminar programme gives attendees a front row seat to gain expertise from across the sector, helping them to start preparing for their successful future, today.”

Vehicle selection

There will be a number of new vehicle launches at this year’s show, many of which will be zero-emission.

Renault for example, is using the CV Show for the UK premiere of its new Master electric van, which has a range of up to 285 miles (WLTP) and a  payload of 1,625 kg. It will be

There will be a number of new vehicle launches at the show, many of which will be zero-emission. Renault for example, is using the show for the UK premiere of its new Master electric van, which has a range of up to 285 miles

joined by the Renault Trafic E-Tech electric and Kangoo E-Tech. new Master E-Tech.

Meanwhile, Renault’s mobility company Mobilize will be showcasing its Fleet@Home offering, which provides a flexible charging solution for businesses that wish to give drivers the choice of charging at home, at work or on the road. Benefits of this software include the ability to view charging sessions, costs and consumption on one portal across all charge points, plus drivers being able to directly expense the domestic electricity that’s been used for business miles.

Maxus will be returning to the CV Show this year with two exciting launches - the eDeliver E

Fleet electrification that works

F 5 electric van, and MIFA 7 - the second model in MAXUS’ all-electric MPV series, as well as a selection of its other commercial vehicles.

Mark Barrett, managing director, Group Franchises, at Harris Group, said: “The CV Show is a key calendar date for our brand, serving as a dynamic platform to showcase Harris MAXUS’ commitment to innovation in the commercial vehicle sector in the UK and beyond.

“The CV Show is a fantastic launchpad for unveiling new and ground-breaking products, reaching not only the media but also the business world and the public at large. It’s our opportunity to demonstrate our dedication to pushing boundaries and engage with a diverse audience eager to witness the future of commercial vehicles.”

Ford Pro will be exhibiting at the CV Show with its all-new, electrified Transit line up, an award-winning Ranger portfolio and some new integrated software.

The E-Transit Courier, Transit Connect plug-in hybrid and E-Transit Custom join the E-Transit, featuring as a minibus, Tipper and Van, as well as some Ford Pro Special Vehicles.

Bradshaw Electric Vehicles will also be on hand to showcase its range of industrial and specialist vehicles.

Telematics

There will be a number of telematics companies showing how their technology can transform fleet operations.

Jaama will be showcasing the latest version of its Key2 fleet management software platform, which can manage all sizes of commercial vehicle fleets.

Jaama’s Key2 is said to manage more 1.6m vehicles for its fleet customers and its new Maintenance Exchange, Compliance Manager and MyTechnician App software has been developed with CV fleets in mind.

Teletrac Navman will put on a team of product experts who will be available to discuss the full range of Teletrac Navman’s fleet solutions as well as findings of the brand’s annual industry report, TS24: The Telematics Survey 2024.

The research, which aims to showcase the prevailing trends that are impacting fleet operations globally, was launched in October 2023, and the results are due to be shared in Q1 of 2024.

As well as operational challenges and how to tackle them, the research explores the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) into everyday life, as well as decision makers’ feelings towards widespread issues like the E

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We aim for next day return ensuring your vehicle is back in service quicker 2023 UK stats - 69.1% DPF cleans returned next day 44.7% Refurbishments returned within 2 days

Over 2,000 clamp & gasket kits supplied 900 SCRs replaced 394 DOCs replaced 3612 body clips replaced 920 tonnes in weights removed using our unique 10 point process

F ongoing driver shortage and the upcoming mandated production ban of petrol and diesel vehicles.

Products and services

Legend Fleet Solutions will be at the CV Show to showcase their latest van products, such as flooring and storage systems, that can be upfitted to vans. This not only protects vehicle assets, but provides a safer, more effective workplace for drivers.

Locks 4 Vans meanwhile will showcase its latest vehicle security innovations for 2024. With the emphasis on a new level of strength, new electronic solutions, an extended cargo range, and its award-winning integrated van alarm system, the company will attend the Commercial Vehicle Show to show delegates their latest security solutions.

Rightcharge will be demonstrating how its Electric Fuel Card consolidates drivers’ charging across public, home, and work. Drivers with the card will be able to access over 38,000 public chargers and cover their home charging by adding credit to their home energy accounts.

B–ON will be present to discuss its full service for fleet electrification, which includes

electric vehicles, productivity-enhancing tools, fleet management software, and electric deployment solutions for commercial fleets.

Driveline Emissions will be present to discuss its services which include DPF cleaning, EGR Cleaning, exhaust reconditioning, fuel tank leaks, and more.

Meanwhile, Dawson Group Vans will be on hand to talk about its flexible van and cargo bike rental services.

Workshops

Within the Show there is a Workshop Sector which showcases everything from OE components and replacement parts to maintenance management systems.

Workshop equipment specialist Totalkare will be attending the show to demonstrate its vehicle lifts, brake testers and live wheel alignment and tyre changer demonstrations. Totalkare will be displaying its mobile column lifts, as well as a two-post lift, vehicle inspection pit, mobile brake tester, tyre changers, wheel alignment, diagnostic equipment and more.

Steve Braund, marketing manager at Totalkare said: “The CV Show remains a key event in Totalkare’s calendar – meeting new E

F customers and catching up with existing ones to showcase our ever-expanding portfolio of commercial vehicle workshop equipment is always a highlight for us and we expect 2024’s show to be no different.

“Our team will be on hand to offer advice on the best lifting and testing solutions and our extensive range of comprehensive service and maintenance options.”

Flying the flag for commercial vehicles

Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said: “The commercial vehicle sector plays a pivotal role in the UK economy, with manufacturers investing billions to deliver ever greener, safer and more cost-effective vehicles and equipment. With the sector in such a period of complex change, operators’ need for expert insight into the latest technologies and regulation has never been greater. In these uncertain times, the CV Show is an unmissable opportunity, providing the most authoritative platform for manufacturers to demonstrate how they can help businesses across Britain navigate the road ahead.”

Richard Smith, RHA Managing Director, said: “The CV Show is a vital fixture in the

commercial road vehicle sector promoting the very best innovations to help businesses operate responsibly and efficiently. It’s also an opportunity for people to connect, learn and join in conversations about the future of our industry, especially on the journey to net zero. We are proud to be a partner in our industry’s biggest trade exhibition in the UK.”

John Eastman, President, IRTE, said: “The CV Show plays an important and vital role in the total scene of road transport not only in the display of new vehicles, but the development of initiatives that allow the operators of trucks, the owners of trucks and the providers of maintenance, to look ahead to achieving efficiency, reducing emissions and improvement in safety in an arena that reflects the importance of road transport to the nation. Large or small, road transport vehicles are an integral part of the economy. The CV Show allows all associated with transport a window to look into the future, and how best to be safe and compliant.” M

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Redefining urban logistics

Dawsongroup | vans

Introducing the ONO e-cargo bike for a zero emission offering

As the world continues to face the consequences of climate change, the transportation industry is starting to feel the pressure to transition to more sustainable ways of moving goods and services. The good news is, there are alternative solutions available that can help reduce carbon emissions and improve efficiencies. One such solution is the truly unique ONO Cargo e-bike.

“At Dawsongroup vans, we are excited to announce the launch of this new electric cargo bike, which offers a host of benefits that extend far beyond conventional delivery methods,” said Sarah Gray, Head of Zero Emission Vehicles at Dawsongroup vans. “With zero emissions, reduced traffic congestion, and lower operating costs, the ONO Cargo bike presents a compelling alternative for urban and suburban transportation.”

Offering the flexibility and accessibility benefits of riding a bike, the ONO Cargo bike provides the cargo capacity and durability of a traditional van. It is a perfect fit for urban areas where traffic congestion and limited parking space are major challenges.

Through a range of innovative finance solutions, companies will be able to trial and introduce the ONO Cargo bike onto their fleet with minimal risk or long-term commitment. In an era where sustainability and efficiency are paramount, the ONO Cargo bike has emerged as a revolutionary solution, redefining the landscape of last-mile logistics. By embracing this technology, businesses can reduce their carbon footprint, improve their operational efficiency, and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Dawsongroup vans is committed to sustainability and is leading from the front on the journey towards net zero. Substantial investment in each of their

branches has resulted in charging infrastructure that ensures all electric vehicles on fleet, as well as those belonging to visitors, are always fully charged and ready for use. Ongoing projects to decarbonise Dawsongroup sites include installing solar panels and EV charging carports, with the aim of reducing the company’s carbon footprint and contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable environment.

In addition to this, all vehicles used by Dawsongroup vans employees to deliver vehicles to customers are now fully electric, and all Dawsongroup vans technicians are accredited to IMI Level 3 to safely maintain the EVs on fleet. These factors provide real understanding of how EVs perform in the real world, which is passed on to customers in the form of valuable insights.

As customers consider the transition to zero emission vehicles, Dawsongroup vans is already a step ahead. It has formed strategic partnerships which will benefit customers and further support them in their journey to net zero, whilst its growing fleet of electric vehicles supports a wide range of industries. This provides customers with a complete and practical solution for managing the transition to electric zero emission vehicles.

Dawsongroup vans is constantly exploring new ways to improve its sustainability practices. With the addition of the ONO Cargo bike to its fleet, Dawsongroup vans offers the perfect solution for SMEs looking to transition to a zero-emission fleet, without having to worry about owning and maintaining a brand-new vehicle. Minimal risk acquisition methods coupled with tailored rental options enable businesses to introduce electric vehicles to their fleets without having to worry about the costs of maintenance, repairs, or disposal.

Wales & West Utilities’ trial of hydrogen powered vans

Wales & West Utilities recently completed a month-long hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle trial with First Hydrogen to evaluate the potential of hydrogen for its commercial fleet. Transport manager Steve Offley discusses the trial and its success

Like many commercial fleet owners, Wales & West Utilities (WWU) is exploring how it can decarbonise its commercial fleet. We serve over 7.5 million customers across Wales and the south west of England, providing a critical 24/7 service and maintaining a network of over 35,000km of pipes. Our teams must

respond quickly to calls and often cover long distances while transporting bulky equipment. Meeting operational towing payloads and range demands across a diverse geography while shifting to a greener alternative for our fleet poses a significant challenge. Three quarters of WWU’s fleet is equipped to tow

and our vehicles need to be suitable for the installation of ‘on board power’ for pneumatic equipment and high-current electric tools on site, vital for our engineers to complete repairs and updates to the network.

While Battery Electric (BEV) has significant potential in many fleets, WWU’s previous studies showed that less than 50 per cent of WWU’s operational journeys could be completed by BEV technology. However, data on Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles (HFCV) showed more than 95 per cent of WWU’s current journeys could be completed, presenting significant opportunities to overcome any operating constraints and concerns over the efficiency and operating costs of BEVs.

We were excited to secure a partnership with First Hydrogen, loaning their first-of-its-kind FCEV prototype for a month-long trial earlier this year.

First Hydrogen’s 3.5 tonne FCEV prototype was shared by two drivers from WWU’s Network Emergency & Metering Services

With the lack of current hydrogen vehicle refuelling infrastructure in WWU’s geography, the project was supported by Protium Green Solutions and Hyppo Hydrogen Solutions to create a hydrogen eco-system to support the trial

team, who are responsible for emergency metering work in South Wales.

The trials allowed the transport team to experience the benefits of a FCEV first-hand, and demonstrating its use in a front-line service role also gave credible findings to share with our stakeholders and other fleet operators.

Refuelling

With the lack of current hydrogen vehicle refuelling infrastructure in WWU’s geography, the collaborative project was supported by Protium Green Solutions and Hyppo Hydrogen Solutions to create a hydrogen ecosystem to support the trial in South Wales.

Protium Green Solutions provided green hydrogen to fuel the vehicle, which was produced at their Pioneer 1 site in Baglan. Green hydrogen is created via electrolysis and renewable power, meaning that there are no emissions produced as part of the process. The demand for hydrogen in South Wales and beyond is growing, and Pioneer 1 has already been involved in other trials. Protium’s second electrolyser, Pioneer 2, will be operational in 2024.

Hyppo Hydrogen Solutions also played a crucial role in the project, supplying their HyQube re-deployable hydrogen refuelling unit. By setting up the unit near WWU’s existing depot in Swansea, the drivers could refuel without travelling miles to a public station. As well as making refuelling easier, this also demonstrated a solution for areas that currently lack hydrogen refuelling infrastructure.

Performance in cold weather

The trials took place during February, which is not only WWU’s busiest period for emergency gas call outs, but also a good test of the vehicle’s performance in colder conditions. With cold and warm climates E

Variation in range makes it difficult for fleet operators to use BEVs over certain duty cycles. For many organisations operating in cooler regions, such as South Wales, predictable range expectations are business critical

F affecting vehicle performance, it was vital for us to focus on this key performance indicator. Variation in range makes it difficult for fleet operators to use BEVs over certain duty cycles.

For many organisations operating in cooler regions, such as South Wales, predictable range expectations are business critical. During the trials, the FCEV supported normal shift working cycles, operating between six and seven hours per day in temperatures of between 2°C and 17°C, without showing any impact on range. The first-of-its-kind van completed more than 2,000km over the four-week trial, travelling up to 189km per day on mostly urban roads and highways. Data collected from onboard telematics showed that the vehicle has the potential to fulfil more demanding duties, like carrying heavier payloads, driving over hilly terrain or powering auxiliary equipment (onboard power). Moreover, it was thumbs-up from the WWU team with feedback agreeing that FCEVs could help fulfil operational demands in future.

Alun Jones, First Call Operative (FCO) for WWU and driver in First Hydrogen’s trials said: “First Hydrogen’s van is lovely to drive and allowed us to get on with our job. The fact you can quickly refuel rather than charge up overnight is a massive advantage for us as sometimes we respond to calls from our homes in the middle of the night. I can see the hydrogen vans working at WWU in terms of the efficiency we need.”

Data collected from the onboard telematics, as well as driver feedback, will help inform future trials.

Demand for green hydrogen

While this project focused on transport (in 2022/23 WWU’s operational fleet emissions represented 44 per cent of our total emissions, excluding shrinkage), WWU has a portfolio

of other hydrogen-related projects, covering industry, domestic and other transport sectors. The aim is that collectively, projects such as these can demonstrate demand for green hydrogen, stimulating the hydrogen economy in Wales and the south west of England.

Head of net zero & sustainability at Wales & West Utilities, Matt Hindle, added: “We’re committed to reaching net zero emissions and helping our customers decarbonise too. Between 2021 and 2026, we’ll be investing £400m in our gas network and by 2035, we aim to deliver a hydrogen ready network to many areas, transforming our entire network by 2040.

“The hydrogen vehicle project complements much of our existing work in South Wales, particularly HyLine Cymru. This is our proposal to build a 130km pipeline from Pembroke to Port Talbot, supplying low carbon hydrogen to industrial customers in the area. Not only would this support our hard-todecarbonise customers but can also act as the catalyst for wider hydrogen adoption.”

Stephen Offley, transport manager for WWU comments: “Overall, we were really impressed with the performance of the vehicle and see HFCEVs playing an important role in meeting the operational needs of our commercial fleet in the future.

“Importantly, these trials have shown it is still possible for fleet operators without fixed hydrogen refuelling infrastructure to access hydrogen mobility, and the data generated from the trials gives us a case to push for this infrastructure so we can benefit from faster refuelling and operational efficiency.”

Fleet operators like WWU are predicted to drive zero emission vehicle sales as they commit to meeting zero-emission vehicle mandates to phase out fossil fuel vehicles in the upcoming decades. Insights from the trials are informing Total Cost of Ownership projections, which are being shared with other fleet operators, notably those in the utilities and construction sectors.

The initiative with First Hydrogen, Protium and Hyppo delivered more than deployment of technology; it also provided a model upon which to build public confidence in hydrogen as a safe and valuable regional asset. M

FURTHER INFORMATION

www.wwutilities.co.uk

firsthydrogen.com

Net zero – driving forward the next steps

With the establishment of a Net Zero Forum and the publication of a net zero roadmap, the RHA’s Chris Ashley discusses how the organisation is driving pragmatic action needed to support the haulage sector with its decarbonisation plans

The RHA supports Net Zero and is determined to drive the pragmatic action needed to achieve it.

Underpinning our support are two initiatives the RHA has recently launched. The first is the creation of our Net Zero Forum in August 2023. The second is the publication in early September of our own “roadmap” to Net Zero.

These initiatives are timely as they coincide with the national debate on environmental issues triggered by the Uxbridge by-election result last July. With the spark being the controversial extension of the Ultra-low Emission Zone (ULEZ) across Greater London, politicians across the political spectrum have

recognised that the public must be brought along the journey to reduce emissions.

We welcome this long over-due debate. The subsequent calls by the Prime Minister for “pragmatism and proportionality” and the Leader of the Opposition for “flexibility” aligns with the position we have previously set out on Net Zero, which we are now well-placed to lead and influence.

A view from the industry

So, what has the RHA been saying and how can we lead?

First, we are fully committed to shaping a way forward which brings operators’, manufacturers’ and retailers’ needs to life on the decarbonisation journey. Firms need clarity and certainty to make the right investment choices in the years ahead.

We support the HGV diesel phase out dates of 2035 and 2040 that the Government has set – we believe these dates are necessary to attract the investment needed which will bring down costs over time. However, the underlying detail from government on how delivery against these targets is managed has been missing.

In our view, this has created a void allowing competing interests to shout their preferred solutions though with little sense of how any of this could be achieved. We have sought to bring structure to the tasks that lie ahead of us so that we can decarbonise the HGV and coach fleets rationally and viably.

Our roadmap therefore sets out a realistic vision of how we believe commercial vehicle decarbonisation can be achieved based on what we know today. That roadmap will evolve as our knowledge develops and the technology innovates and matures to overcome the practical challenges facing our sector. Those practical challenges encompass whether

the vehicles have the required range and performance characteristics for a particular operation, whether the electric or hydrogen infrastructure is in place to power the vehicles, and how the necessary volume production is generated to bring down the capital costs.

We have taken this position based on the following starting points. Firstly, that the entire United Kingdom, including our rural and remote communities, is catered for by Net Zero.

That all economic sectors within the UK, including our quarries, forests and the transportation of hazardous goods, can be serviced by our members.

And that the public will expect the exceptionally high levels of service that they currently enjoy from logistics and coach operations to continue.

Logistics must not suffer

The economy and its success is vital to all of us. Ninety-five percent of everything we have in the UK comes on the back of a lorry at some point and, given the distances involved and the lack of rail freight capability, there is no alternative. Our coach membership provide crucial passenger services that connect people to one another.

When viewed from this perspective, gaps emerge on how all parts of the UK can be accommodated by net zero. That is why we have not been afraid to call for exemptions for some hard-to-decarbonise operations until

The RHA will seek to facilitate a clear understanding of how the different non-diesel fuel technologies will allow its members to service the UK economy so that, in turn, it can continue functioning

suitable solutions are found or for interim measures such as the use of low carbon fuels like hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) or liquid natural gas (LNG). However, should the need for exemptions to fall away, then we will also support that move. Building in periodic reviews on progress is therefore sensible.

To inform the discussions and activities that need to happen, our Net Zero Forum –consisting of a cross-representation of the RHA membership - will shape the pathway forwards. Based on our members’ feedback and experiences, it will give direction to the RHA’s engagement with the many stakeholders we will work with to make Net Zero happen.

Challenges to overcome

We see the tasks that lie ahead grouped around five themes – bringing down costs, E

We have not been afraid to call for exemptions for some hard-to-decarbonise operations until suitable solutions are found

F infrastructure investment, validating vehicle performance, upskilling our workforce and guiding management through the changing technological, regulatory and commercial landscape. Underpinning this, the RHA will seek to facilitate a clear understanding of how the different non-diesel fuel technologies will allow our members to service the UK economy so that, in turn, it can continue functioning. We see hydrogen having a clear role to play for those operations where battery electric options cannot provide a viable solution. In simple terms, hydrogen has the potential to provide solutions for those operations that require prolonged sources of energy intensity, such as long-distance or specialist operations. Furthermore, we do not believe that any technological options should be ruled out –hydrogen combustion technologies should be given every opportunity to develop alongside hydrogen fuel-cell. This is a pragmatic and rationale step to take where real needs exist. We observe however two significant barriers specific to hydrogen to overcome. First, the development of hydrogen-powered commercial

vehicles is less advanced than their batterypowered equivalents. Their real-world performance via extensive testing and trials is therefore vital to inform relevant investment and businesses cases. Secondly, the economics that underpin hydrogen must be competitive with total cost of ownership models for hydrogen comparable with other fuel-types.

Significant financial, technological and practical risks therefore exist which threaten the exceptional and low-cost levels of service our members deliver to the public. That is why we welcome the government’s commitment to mitigate this by investing £200m in its “Zero Emission and Hydrogen Infrastructure Demonstrator Programme” (ZEHID). The data which flows from this initiative will help answer the many fundamental questions our sector has to ensure that they can ensure they can deliver an efficient service without disruption.

Meanwhile, we also believe low carbon fuels such as HVO or LNG have a role to play. Whilst recognising these fuels are not zero emission, we believe their ability to reduce emissions

by up to 90 percent provides industry with a “safety net” for those hard-to-decarbonise operations. This where the question of “exemptions” within government policy is then relevant. Should viable zero emission solutions for certain operations be not found in time, then we believe these operations should be “exempt” from the phase-out dates and be permitted to use a low-carbon fuel that can be appropriately off-set.

Making net zero work

Achieving Net Zero is complex, but we observe that tremendous goodwill exists across many different sectors to make Net Zero work. Coordinating this goodwill whilst managing the competing interests involved is therefore essential. Collaboration will be key with the approach guided by dialogue, debate and consent to set the right path and make the right choices which support businesses. We stand ready to facilitate this. M

www.rha.uk.net

Volkswagen ID 3

The Volkswagen ID 3 arrived with a fanfare in 2020, as the company’s first bespoke electric car. Recently revised, Richard Gooding discovers the latest version of VW’s electric hatchback is usefully improved

What is it?

The first model to be underpinned by Volkswagen’s new ‘MEB’ modular electric platform, software and quality glitches may have prevented the ID 3 from fulfilling its ultimate potential – although Volkswagen still sold 140,800 ID 3s globally during 2023 – but this revised version goes far to right those wrongs. Similarly to the previous incarnation (GreenFleet 135), the latest ID 3 is powered by a 201bhp rear electric motor – a 210kW (282bhp) GTX performance model will be launched later this year.

What range does it have?

The refreshed ID 3 has batteries with capacities of 58kWh and 77kWh; the smaller 45kWh battery of the old car has so far not made a reappearance. The 58kWh battery gives a range of up to 266 miles, while the larger 77kWh battery has an official WLTP-rated single charge driving distance of up to 347 miles. A heat pump is a £1,050 option.

How long does it take to charge?

The 58kWh ID 3 has a charging capacity of up to 120kW DC, and can be charged from five to 80 per cent at a ultra-fast charger in around 35 minutes. A 7.2kW wallbox will fully charge a depleted battery in just under nine hours. The 77kWh ID 3 comes with a larger charging capacity of up to

170kW DC, which drops the five to 80 per cent battery refill time to around 30 minutes. A 0-100 per cent home wallbox charge is completed in under 12 hours, and the car’s optimised 80 per cent charge setting helps maintain battery life.

How does it drive?

Externally, the 2024 ID 3 looks very similar to the 2020 version, but the removal of the black panel on the bonnet along with the addition of new bumpers give a cleaner look. Inside, the quality of materials has been upped significantly, with soft-touch dashboard and front door plastics really lifting the cabin over the pre-revision car. The driver’s 5.3-inch display shows all the information you need, and while the 10-inch infotainment screen hasn’t changed – there are still no backlit sliders – improved software is faster than before. A larger screen with slider lighting is set to arrive later in 2024.

With 201bhp, the ID 3 feels plenty fast enough, and on the move, it’s very quiet, with little road or wind noise entering the cabin. The suspension is very well damped, and the ride is comfortable, but still has enough firmness for a sportier drive. Four driving modes – Eco, Comfort, Sport and Individual – allow you to tailor the driving experience, but even in the Comfort setting the ID 3 has crisp turn-in and a welcome agility. The one-stage regenerative braking system brings the

Model tested: Volkswagen ID 3 Pro 58kWh

car to a harsher halt, but no one-pedal driving function feels like a missed opportunity.

What does it cost?

Volkswagen has kept the ID 3 model family simple, with two ‘tiers’ of trim levels, each with one battery. The £35,700 ID 3 Pro Essential comes with the 58kWh battery and includes 18inch wheels, auto wipers, LED exterior lights, ambient lighting, an auxiliary air heater, four USB-C ports, and wireless connectivity. The £36,650 ID 3 Pro Match 58kWh has keyless entry, navigation, a rear view camera, and a wireless smartphone charger.

The Pro S Essential and Pro S Match ID 3s have the larger 77kWh battery. Priced from £39,190, the ID 3 Pro S Essential adds 19inch alloy wheels, plusher seat trim, and ‘ErgoActive’ power adjustable front seats. The ID 3 Pro S Match costs from £40,050 with 20inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, Matrix LED headlights, and heated front seats. Our test ID 3 Pro 58kWh car arrived before VW’s recent realignments, and is equivalent to the latest ID 3 Pro Match.

How much does it cost to tax?

Currently, as with all EVs in the UK, all versions of the Volkswagen ID 3 are exempt from VED charges in the first and subsequent years of registration. For 2024-2025, Volkswagen’s electric hatchback attracts a two per cent Benefit In Kind (BIK) value.

Why does my fleet need one?

The latest revisions have really upped the ID 3’s game in the competitive electric family hatchback fleet sector. It looks a little sharper than before, and the much improved interior quality adds more appeal. The way the ID 3 drives is one area that wasn’t in need of change so that’s been left alone, but with slightly more efficient batteries, there are useful increases in range. All in all, it’s a nicely handled upgrade that adds both more fleet and ‘emotional’ appeal to Volkswagen’s smallest all-electric model. L

FURTHER INFORMATION

www.volkswagen.co.uk

VOLKSWAGEN ID 3

ENGINE: 150kW (201bhp) electric motor, 58kWh battery* / 150kW (201bhp) electric motor, 77kWh battery** / rear-wheel drive

RANGE (WLTP, combined): 266*-347** miles

OFFICIAL EFFICIENCY (WLTP combined): 4.1mpkWh

GF EFFICIENCY: 3.3mpkWh

CO2: 0g/km

VED: £0 first-year, £0 thereafter

BIK: 2%

PRICE (OTR): £35,700-£40,050 (including VAT)

*Pro Essential/Pro Match trims, **Pro S Essential/Pro S Match trims

First Drive: BMW i5

The BMW 5 series has been a fleet car staple for over 50 years, but the introduction of the ‘G60’ eighth generation model sees the arrival of the first all-electric version. Richard Gooding finds an executive saloon that succeeds in offering fleet drivers luxury with electric car performance and technology

What is it?

BMW is GreenFleet’s current Fleet Car Manufacturer of the Year, and in 2023 the brand registered 28,723 all-electric cars; every fourth BMW sold in the UK was an all-electric model. The i5 executive saloon is available in rear-wheel drive, single motor, eDrive40 and all-wheel drive, twinmotor, M60 xDrive forms. An i5 Touring estate is offered with the same powertrains as the saloon, but with a 570-1,700-litre luggage capacity. Plug-in hybrid i5 models are also available.

What range does it have?

All versions of the BMW i5 are fitted with the same 81.2kWh battery. The lower-powered eDrive40 has an official WLTP combined range of 341-356 miles, while the more powerful i5 M60 xDrive can officially drive 284-315 miles on a single charge when conditions allow. A heat pump is standard on all i5 models to help maximise range, and a ‘Maximum Range’ driving mode reduces the amount of available power and some comfort functions to eke out more miles, claimed to increase range by up to 25 per cent.

How long does it take to charge?

Every BMW i5 is capable of up to 205kW DC charging, and a 10-80 per cent battery refill at a high-power charging station takes a claimed

30 minutes. The eDrive40 models have an AC charging rate cap of 11kW, meaning a 0-100 per cent charge at an AC connection such as a BMW wallbox will take just under nine hours. M60 xDrive cars top out at 22kW AC – optional on the eDrive40 – dropping this time to a little over four hours. Regenerative braking through the gearbox’s ‘B’ mode gives more sudden braking performance, with three presets for enhanced energy recuperation. The car can also adaptively choose a level based on current driving conditions.

How does it drive?

The latest i5 is unmistakably a modern BMW from the outside, but without some of the awkwardness of more recent models. It’s nicely proportioned, sharp-suited and technology rich, and that continues into the cabin. You sit low, and initial thoughts turn to the larger 7 Series interior. BMW’s new curved display which seamlessly blends the 12.3-inch driver’s display with the 14.9inch touchscreen infotainment screen to make one unit has crisp graphics, but is a little too busy, with lots of information to decipher. BMW’s latest Operating System 8.5 software is fast, though. The backlit interaction bar is borrowed from the 7 Series and controls the air conditioning, also warning of incoming calls.

Model tested: BMW i5 eDrive40

Sport Pro

Even though it’s the entry level powertrain, the i5 eDrive40 has plenty of get-up-and-go, torque of 295lb ft (400Nm) delivering plenty of pace. On the road, BMW’s newest fleet EV challenger doesn’t feel its size, arguably more akin to a 3 Series. Almost as dynamic as that car, and the smaller i4, there is plenty of grip, and the i5 turns in very crisply for a five-metre long car that weighs over two tonnes. While firm, the ride remains comfortable – all UK cars come equipped with M Sport suspension – and the steering offers some feedback, making the car easy to place. Refinement is excellent, with little road or wind noise. In summary, dynamic and fun to drive, BMW’s executive electric saloon delivers the driving experience you’d expect.

What does it cost?

Available in three trim grades, the i5 family is fairly straightforward. The £67,695 i5 Sport Edition comes with 19-inch alloy wheels, LED exterior lights, perforated and quilted black leatherette upholstery, and wireless smartphone charging. Priced from £74,105, the i5 M Sport counts alcantara seat trim among other highlights. The £77,105 i5 M Sport Pro adds 20-inch wheels, and, as with the Sport Edition and M Sport, has the eDrive40 powertrain. The i5 M60 xDrive costs from £97,745, and its highlights include adaptive suspension.

How much does it cost to tax?

All BMW i5 models are currently exempt from VED charges in the first and following years of registration. For 2024-2025, fleet drivers will pay a two per cent Benefit In Kind (BIK) value for BMW’s electric saloon.

Why does my fleet need one?

Price aside, the BMW i5 delivers on its maker’s promise of a dynamic drive, with a technologyrich interior, which although at times can be hard to navigate, looks classy. Whichever version is chosen, fleet drivers wanting a luxurious electric saloon will be rewarded. The entry level eDrive40 is particularly a solid

choice, with more than enough power and a longer range than the M60 xDrive. A very accomplished newcomer, BMW has succeeded in ushering in a polished electric version of its fleet favourite. L

FURTHER INFORMATION

www.bmw.co.uk

BMW i5

POWERTRAIN: 250kW (335bhp) electric motor, 81.2kWh battery, rear-wheel drive* / 442kW (592bhp) electric motor, 81.2kWh battery, allwheel drive**

RANGE (WLTP, combined): 312-366 miles* / 284-315 miles**

OFFICIAL EFFICIENCY (WLTP combined): 3.6-3.8mpkWh* / 3.0-3.4mpkWh**

CO2: 0g/km

VED: £0 first-year, £0 thereafter

BIK: 2%

PRICE (OTR): £67,695-£97,745 (including VAT)

eDrive40, **M60 xDrive

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