GREENFLEET 162

ISSUe 162

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GreenFleet DRIVING THE SWITCH TO CLEANER FLEETS

COUNTDOWN TO 2035

ENDING THE FOSSIL FUEL ERA

The clock is ticking to make the move to electric

GREENFLEET AWARDS 2025

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Editor’s Comment GREENFLEET 162

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Contents

Contents GREENFLEET 162 COUNTDOWN TO 2035

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12

NEWS

ELECTRIFICATION

COUNTDOWN TO 2035

COUNTDOWN TO 2035

22

18

29

BUDGET 2025

EV GRANTS & FUNDING

COUNTDOWN TO 2035

COUNTDOWN TO 2035

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34

TELEMATICS

52

COUNTDOWN TO 2035

ENERGY MANAGEMENT

45

EXPERT INSIGHT

54

ROUNDTABLE: SCOTLAND

FLEET INTERVIEW

57

GREENFLEET AWARDS

64

FREIGHT & LOGISTICS

GREENFLEET Magazine

ALTERNATIVE FUELS

www.greenfleet.net Issue 162 |

5

News Paul Hollick, chair, Association of Fleet Professionals

MANUFACTURING

The AFP’s Paul Hollick

Why fleets need to engage on eVED consultation Fleet engagement with the new government consultation on Electric Vehicle Excise Duty (eVED) is essential to highlight a wide range of potential problems.

Our members at the Association of Fleet Professionals (AFP) broadly accept the need for the government to recover revenue lost from petrol and diesel fuel duty but there are major concerns about the system being proposed.

At a strategic level, the timing of eVED is highly questionable. Acceptance of electric cars in the fleet and especially retail sectors is growing steadily but is still highly uneven. Adding to costs before EVs become the norm, especially with a new form of taxation, is a very risky move.

Initial public reception to the idea of pence per mile payments has not been positive and there is the possibility that eVED becomes a further, perhaps major, barrier to electric car adoption. The government’s thinking appears to be that this negativity will be offset by continuing the new electric car grant until near the end of the decade but whether that will materialise is questionable. Also, it won’t help demand in the used market, which is perhaps where fleets have the biggest... concerns about electrification because...

CONTINUE READING

www.theafp.co.uk

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DRIVING THE SWITCH TO CLEANER FLEETS | www.greenfleet.net

Nissan begins production of new LEAF in Sunderland Nissan has begun production of the next generation LEAF in Sunderland - making it the first new high volume electric car to be produced in the UK since 2020.

Nissan has invested more than £450 million into manufacturing the new LEAF at its Wearside plant - including over £300 million directly into the firm’s UK operations.

Industry Minister Chris McDonald, who attended the launch in Sunderland, said: “We’re proud of our historic car industry, so I’m delighted that Nissan is producing the new LEAF in Sunderland. This will strengthen the UK’s position as a global leader for manufacturing and as the destination of choice for investment.”

The government plans to cluster EV manufacturing across growth areas as part of its Industrial Strategy. Along with the introduction of the new LEAF, the government is announcing the launch of two new regional EV supply chain pilots in partnership with the North East and West Midlands Metro Mayors.

These programmes, implemented under DRIVE35, will strategically boost growth, enhance UK supply chain resilience and increase domestic production in the transition to zero emission technologies.

Just over the road from the plant, AESC has opened a new 12 GWh gigafactory which will supply batteries for Nissan, showcasing the power of investment in boosting the supply chain through new jobs and opportunities in the region...

CONTINUE READING

Jonathan Murray, acting managing director, Zemo Partnership

Call for evidence to shape selfdriving vehicle framework The government is launching a call for evidence to shape a framework on self-driving technology and its safe introduction on Britain’s roads.

This is a key next step in implementing the UK’s Automated Vehicles (AV) Act, which will ensure self-driving technology can help transform travel by strengthening road safety and improving accessible transport options – including access to essential services – especially for disabled people, older people and vulnerable groups.

The call for evidence asks people for their views on how Britain’s AV laws can encourage strong safety features to be built into self-driving vehicles and ensure they remain future proofed as the technology evolves. Other areas include how self-driving vehicles are authorised and licensed, incident investigation processes and robust cybersecurity measures to guard against international threats.

Once the new regulatory framework has been drafted, a further consultation will be launched in the second half of 2026 to ensure policy fully meets the needs of the road users, the disabled community, industry and wider stakeholders.

Simon Lightwood, Roads and Buses Minister, said: “This announcement marks an important step as we lay the foundations for this technology to thrive on our roads from next year. We’re consulting widely...

News

AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

Zemo Partnership’s Jonathan Murray

Reflections on the 2025 Budget On reflection, the 2025 Budget will surely be considered a significant moment in terms of road vehicle taxation. We’ve known for a long time that something had to change because – as the Exchequer Secretary pointed out in his foreword to the eVED consultation published alongside the Budget - if things stayed the same, then by 2030 around one in five car drivers would be paying no fuel duty at all, while other motorists would continue to contribute an average of £480 a year.

The new 3p per mile charge for EVs (half for PHEVs) is expected to come into effect in April 2028. The Government is clearly aware of the risk of sending mixed messages as it seeks to encourage EV uptake (according to the ZEV Mandate trajectory) and was at pains to point out that the rate of eVED paid by EV drivers will be half the fuel duty rate levied on the average driver of a petrol or diesel vehicle.

In the eVED consultation, the Government also includes a long list of measures being taken to encourage EV uptake, including: more money for the Electric Car Grant; raising the threshold for the Expensive Car Supplement; delaying changes to benefit-in-kind rules until 2030; increasing support for the development of charging infrastructure plus several other supportive mechanisms.

There’s much that can be debated around whether the proposed per mile...

CONTINUE READING

CONTINUE READING

www.zemo.org.uk

Issue 162 |

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News

POLICY

EU softens 2035 ban on new petrol and diesel cars The European Commission has softened its approach to the planned 2035 phaseout of new petrol and diesel cars, easing requirements following sustained pressure from parts of the automotive industry.

Under existing regulations, all new cars sold in the EU from 2035 were due to be zero-emission. However, manufacturers, particularly those based in Germany, have argued that current market conditions make the target difficult to achieve.

The Commission’s updated proposal would require 90 per cent of new car sales to be zero-emission from 2035, falling short of the previous 100 per cent mandate. The remaining 10 per cent could include petrol and diesel vehicles, as well as hybrids.

Manufacturers will also be expected to increase their use of low-carbon steel produced within the EU. In addition, the Commission anticipates greater reliance on biofuels and e-fuels, which are synthetic fuels made using captured carbon dioxide to offset emissions from internal combustion engine vehicles.

Industry body the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) warned that demand for electric vehicles remains insufficient and that failing to adjust the rules could expose carmakers to “multi-billion euro” fines. However, critics of the changes argue that weakening the targets could slow the transition to electric mobility and leave European manufacturers at a disadvantage against international competitors...

CONTINUE READING

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DRIVING THE SWITCH TO CLEANER FLEETS | www.greenfleet.net

COMMERCIAL VEHICLES

Royal Mail rolls out fleet of new electric HGVs Royal Mail has rolled out its first fleet of eight electric Heavy Goods Vehicles (eHGVs) at its Midlands and North West Parcel Hubs.

The eight DAF 42-tonne XD 350E electric HGVs will handle ‘middle-mile’ deliveries between parcel hubs and mail centres.

Each vehicle will be powered by ABB’s highperformance T360 chargers, capable of adding up to 60 miles of range in under 15 minutes.

Through its participation in the Electric Freightway project, Royal Mail has installed high-speed chargers at its two parcel hubs in Daventry and Warrington, which has made it possible to introduce eHGVs. The new eHGVs will save around one thousand tonnes of carbon emissions annually and lower operational costs by replacing diesel trucks with zero-emission alternatives.

Electric Freightway, led by GRIDSERVE, is backed by over £100 million in investment, including £62.7 million of UK Government support. It will deliver the UK’s most advanced public charging networks for eHGVs, with more than 200 chargers capable of up to 350kW and supporting over 140 electric trucks nationwide. Data collected over five years will help accelerate the decarbonisation of the freight sector.

Electric Freightway is part of the Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrator (ZEHID) programme. The ZEHID programme is backed by up to £200m in funding from the UK Government and delivered in partnership with Innovate UK. With a vision to deploy around 300 of the heaviest battery-electric and hydrogen fuel...

CONTINUE READING

News

More top news stories from www.greenfleet.net Dundee first council to migrate away from ChargePlace Scotland: READ MORE Mitsubishi confirms UK return with new Outlander PHEV : READ MORE Global Women in EV Day to launch next year: READ MORE Mixed signals are stalling EV adoption, MPs told: READ MORE Arnold Clark reveals which professions most likely to buy an EV: READ MORE MANUFACTURING

Mercedes EV investment to create over 150 UK Jobs A new UK-Germany electric vehicle technology project led by Mercedes will create new jobs across Northamptonshire and Oxfordshire.

It comes as the German President FrankWalter Steinmeier visited the UK in early December to bolster the UK’s economic ties with Germany.

The project led by Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains – renowned for the power units used in Formula 1 cars – will create over 150 new, high valued jobs whilst securing another 34 existing roles. It will also strengthen the UK’s EV supply chain.

Called the IGNITED project, it will develop an ultra-compact, high-power electric drive system – similar to an engine – for high-performance EVs. UK partners include YASA Ltd and DePe Gear Company Ltd, with production expected within three years.

The Government is backing the initiative with £10 million through the Advanced Propulsion Centre, with the project costing £20 million in total.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “This investment by Mercedes shows the real benefits of that partnership: cutting-edge innovation, more jobs, and a stronger economy for Britain.”

READ MORE

Lamech Soloman, head of decarbonisation policy, Logistics UK

Logistics UK’s Lamech Soloman Clear roadmap is essential for decarbonising UK logistics Low confidence across the logistics sector and insufficient support means government decarbonisation targets are at significant risk of being missed.

The stark warning is revealed in a comprehensive report from Logistics UK that was published last month: “Powering Change: building a credible plan for decarbonising road logistics”.

The data-led policy report draws on the expertise of our members and wider industry and reveals a growing gap between decarbonisation targets and industry readiness - particularly from smaller operators who form the backbone of the industry.

The urgent need to reduce emissions and address climate change is not in question: the sector is committed to decarbonising and across the sector we see investment in infrastructure, adoption of battery electric vehicles, large-scale trials of battery HGVs and greater use of low carbon fuel. The report also highlights the resilience and determination of the industry to meet the need for low-emission logistics: diesel use is predicted to drop to 50 per cent by 2030 from current use of 80 per cent through increased use of low carbon fuel, as well as a rise in battery electric vehicles.

Yet there is no avoiding the reality that operators consider the current technology and policy landscape confusing and fragmented. The research outlined in the report, shows industry’s concerns are driven by a lack of confidence that there is sufficient support for the sector to switch to Zero Emission Vehicles: ...

CONTINUE READING

www.logistics.org.uk

Issue 162 |

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Make room for

YOUR BIG IDEAS. THE ALL-ELECTRIC MINI ACEMAN. LEARN MORE

MINI FOR BUSINESS.

Fuel economy figures and CO2 results for the MINI electric range: Mpg (1/1000km): Not applicable. CO2 emissions: 0g/km. Electric range 185 - 287 miles. The MINI electric models are battery electric vehicles requiring mains electricity for charging. Whilst recommended the battery for these vehicles are charged to 80% to help optimise the life of your battery, the electric range figure shown is the WLTP figure after the battery had been charged to 100%.

MEET THE CEO of space.

THE ALL-ELECTRIC MINI COUNTRYMAN. LEARN MORE

WLPT figures are shown for comparability purposes. Only compare fuel consumption, C02 and electric range figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures.

These figures may not reflect real life driving results which will depend on a number of factors including the starting charge of the battery, accessories fitted (post registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load.

Countdown to 2035 Electrification

Preparing for 2035 With the UK preparing to end the sale of new petrol and diesel cars in 2030, and vans and hybrids in 2035, a zero-emission vehicle future is rapidly approaching. So how can fleet operators get ready for the transition?

In four short years, manufacturers in the UK will no longer be able to sell new petrol or diesel cars, with the 2030 ICE ban taking effect.

Hybrid cars, however, will still be allowed until 2035, as will petrol, diesel and hybrid vans.

At the same time, the ZEV Mandate is compelling manufacturers to steadily increase the proportion of electric vehicles they produce or face penalties. As a result, the number of electric models is rising, with around 130 electric cars and 40 electric vans now available.

For organisations operating car or van fleets, the clock is ticking to make the move to electric.

The benefits of making the switch now means a future proofed fleet. So where should you start?

Knowing which vehicles to start with To identify which vehicles in a fleet are ready to move to electric, it is essential to analyse

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A range of funding schemes are available to support electrification. In the latest budget, Chancellor Rachel Reeves extended the electric car grant to 2030

Electrification

operational patterns such as journey types, typical mileages and duty cycles. Telematics can support this process by providing suitability assessments based on mileage, efficiency and total cost of ownership data.

Some systems use artificial intelligence to process large quantities of data and recommend which vehicles are most appropriate for electrification. Once an electric fleet is in place, telematics can continue to improve performance by monitoring energy

usage, tracking battery levels and helping with route planning and charging schedules.

Alongside vehicle selection, fleet managers must consider their charging requirements.

They will need to determine whether vehicles can charge at employees’ homes, rely on the public charging network or require new workplace charging infrastructure. If home charging is an option, employers should discuss installation with employees and establish how charging costs will be reimbursed.

There are now over 86,000 public chargers in the UK, meaning that fleets that have to charge out and about, have increasingly more choice.

However, planning is still recommended as there are areas in the UK where the network is patchy. While new public charge points above 8kW and existing charge points over 50kW must offer contactless payment options, chargers with a power output of 7kW or less may still require app registration or a network account.

Fleet operators may want to issue charge cards to drivers to simplify access, consolidate billing, and avoid confusion around reimbursements for work mileage. E

Countdown to 2035

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Countdown to 2035 Electrification

14

Sponsored by

F Charging vehicles If workplace charging is needed, understanding the site’s power availability is crucial. This involves reviewing the location’s agreed supply capacity, its current energy usage and the amount of spare capacity available for charging infrastructure. This assessment helps prevent power overloads and outages.

If spare capacity is limited, grid connection upgrades may be possible through the district network operator, although this can be expensive. Alternatives include using smart chargers with load balancing capabilities or generating onsite power, such as through solar panels combined with battery storage.

Load balancing systems can automatically adjust the energy supplied to chargepoints based on real-time usage across the site.

A site survey is an important stage of the installation process. Engineers will visit to assess how chargepoints can be installed, what power will be required and whether any groundworks are necessary. If the property is rented, landlords must give consent for any charging installation. This can take time and may involve legal processes, so it is advisable to start discussions early.

As part of planning, it is useful to understand the different charging speeds available.

Fast charging typically ranges from 7kWh

to 25kWh and is suitable for workplace or overnight depot charging. Rapid charging operates at around 50kWh to 100kWh and provides quicker turnaround times. Ultrarapid charging – between 150kWh and 400kWh – is generally used at public charging hubs, short-stay locations and for electric HGVs. It is also important to distinguish between AC and DC charging. AC chargepoints draw alternating current from the grid and convert it to direct current within the vehicle, with charging speeds limited by the car’s onboard hardware. DC chargers house the converter within the charger itself, allowing power to be delivered to the vehicle more quickly.

When choosing a chargepoint installer, it is important to review the functionality of their back-office system. A comprehensive system should allow operators to monitor charging sessions, track speeds and payments and produce CO2 reports. It is equally important to understand the level of aftercare provided, including maintenance support and repair services.

Grants from the government A range of government funding schemes is available to support electrification. In the latest budget, Chancellor Rachel Reeves extended the

Using your electric vehicle investment to make money

The time will come when your attention on electrification cost savings switches to a focus on EV-fleet-based revenue generation.

And the sooner you build a future-proof electrification plan, the sooner you can start using your electric vehicle investment to make money via demand-side response.

It’s important to secure internal support for electrification by building a cost-effective plan. And it’s important to pay attention to efficiencies – charging locations, schedules and hardware specifications – to prove that the transition will have minimal impact on business-as-usual operations. But it’s just as important – in the longer-term perhaps even more important – to consider how energy supply, consumption and optimisation will shape your fleet electrification’s success and pay back its cost.

Speak to an electrification partner that understands the impact energy will have on your operations and prepares you for the significant financial opportunities optimisation will bring. L

Electrification

electric car grant to 2030. The grant applies to eligible new electric cars costing £37,000 or less and provides either £1,500 or £3,750 depending on the vehicle’s environmental performance.

When annoucing the grant, Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, said: “We’re putting money back in people’s pockets and making it easier and cheaper for drivers to make the switch to electric, by delivering discounts of up to £3,750 on EVs. “Our measures are driving competition in the UK EV market, boosting economic growth and supporting jobs and skills as part of our Plan for Change.”

The Autumn Budget also extended the Plugin Van Grant until 2027. The grant currently offers up to £2,500 for small vans and up to £5,000 for larger vans, while eligible small and large trucks can receive maximum discounts of £16,000 and £25,000 respectively.

The Workplace Charging Scheme remains in place until 31 March 2026 and covers up to 75 per cent of installation costs, capped at £350 per socket and up to 40 sockets per applicant.

With four short years until the ICE car ban comes into effect, the move to electric is fast approaching. While van fleets have longer, fleet operators that begin the transition now will be better positioned for a future shaped by cleaner, more sustainable mobility. L

Countdown to 2035

SPONSOR’S COMMENT

FURTHER INFORMATION

energy.drax.com/ev Naomi Nye, head of sales Drax Electric Vehicles

Issue 162 |

15

Charged for the future We know that organisations are looking for a long-term partner to provide flexible, future-proofed, turnkey EV charging services.

From assessment through to optimisation, we build a bespoke package to implement the best solution for your needs.

Find out more energy.drax.com/ev

Advertisement Feature

Why energy and optimisation are vital to realising electrification’s potential Switching to an EV fleet isn’t just about cutting upfront costs. With the right energy strategy and smart optimisation, organisations can turn their charging infrastructure into a long-term revenue opportunity

When you’re starting your electrification journey there are a number of factors that you need to consider. Much of the focus on the shift to EV fleets will be on minimising outlay and maximising upfront cost-savings.

That’s understandable – and organisations should be looking to use government grants, take advantage of funding plans and consider whether the most powerful vehicles and charging hardware are really necessary. Energy products and special tariffs exist to support consumers with reducing costs.

But what many organisations aren’t thinking about is the stage beyond installation and maintaining ‘business as usual’. And that’s the scope EV fleets will have for generating revenue. The long-term success of organisations’ electrification investments will lie in their electricity supply contracts and their potential for energy optimisation.

Working with a partner, who has experience in the EV and energy sectors, can ensure you implement the right infrastructure strategy for your business. They can help you plan in areas you might not have considered, including:

Optimisation The optimisation of your assets – particularly your EV fleet – can help you to generate revenue. By using smart charging technology and data, you’ll be able to strategically manage charging times to optimise the potential for making money through demand-side response. Optimisation markets such as the Government’s Demand Flexibility Service offer consumers financial rewards for helping balance electricity supply and demand.

And beyond these initial considerations, organisations should be thinking about optimal charger installation locations, smart charging solutions and charging schedules.

This is necessary to enable pence-per-mile cost savings and to minimise operational disruption. M FURTHER INFORMATION

energy.drax.com/ev

Power Your organisation might currently only consume moderate amounts of electricity.

But when you switch to EV fleets, this could change. Energy prices are higher than they were a few years ago, so this could change your relationship with energy consumption and your attitude to your energy supply.

Issue 162 |

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Countdown to 2035 Budget 2025

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Budget 2025 – what’s changing for EV drivers?

The 2025 Budget introduced significant changes for electric vehicle drivers, including a proposed mileage-based tax from 2028, extended funding for the electric car grant and fresh investment in charging infrastructure Chancellor Rachel Reeves has unveiled major reforms for electric vehicle owners in the 2025 Budget, including a mileagebased tax from 2028, a £1.3bn extension to the electric car grant, and fresh investment in charging infrastructure.

While the government says the measures balance revenue needs with continued EV support, industry leaders warn the new tax risks slowing the UK’s transition to zero-emission motoring.

Mileage-based charging for EVs Electric vehicle drivers will be subject to a new “mileage-based charge” from April 2028, in order to offset any declines in fuel duty as electrification continues.

The eVED charge will apply to both battery electric cars and plug-in hybrids, marking a significant shift in how zeroemission motoring is taxed in the UK. Battery electric vehicles will incur a charge of 3p per mile in addition to existing road taxes,

Electric vehicle drivers will be subject to a new “mileagebased charge” from April 2028, in order to offset any declines in fuel duty as electrification continues The mileage charge follows another major policy change earlier this year, when electric vehicle owners began paying Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) for the first time, ending a longstanding tax exemption for zero-emission cars.

A consultation has been published to gain opinions on how the system will work, with the government expected to provide further detail on how the new system will be implemented.

Budget 2025

while plug-in hybrids will be charged 1.5p per mile during the 2028–29 financial year.

To continue to incentivise the EV market, the rate of eVED paid by battery electric vehicle drivers will be half the fuel duty rate paid by the average petrol/diesel driver.

The consultation document suggests that motorists will estimate their mileage for the year ahead, pay an upfront charge based on their estimate or spread their payment across the year, and then submit their actual mileage at the end of the year to trigger a reconciliation. Motorists will have their mileage checked annually.

The new levy is expected to generate £1.1 billion for the Treasury in its first year, rising to £1.9 billion by 2030 as more EVs join the roads.

However, the Office for Budget Responsibility warns that the tax could have a cooling effect on the UK’s transition to electric motoring.

The organisation forecasts 440,000 fewer EV sales over the next five years due to the mileage charge. Government incentives for cleaner vehicles are expected to soften the impact, but only partially, boosting sales by an estimated 130,000 units.

Countdown to 2035

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Extension to the electric car grant Chancellor Rachel Reeves also announced a £1.3 billion additional funding for the electric car grant – extending it to 2030. This takes the total funding for the grant to £2 billion.

The electric car grant was announced in July and gives discounts of up to £3,750 at the point of sale for new eligible electric cars priced at or under £37,000.

The grant level is £1,500 or £3,750 depending on the vehicle’s environmental score.

The government recently announced there are 39 models of electric vehicles eligible for the Electric Car Grant.

But there only four models that are eligible for the higher grant level of £3,750. These are the Citroën ë-C5 Aircross Long Range; Ford E-Tourneo Courier; Ford Puma Gen-E; and Nissan LEAF. The government says that over 35,000 drivers have already used the grant to make the switch since it launched in July.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves also announced a further £200m to accelerate the rollout EV charging in the Budget.

Other announcements Fuel duty will be frozen at its current rate until September 2026 - increasing by 1p from 1 September 2026, 2p from 1 December 2026, and 2p from 1 March 1 2027.

The government has also announced it will be raising the threshold at which new EVs pay the VED Expensive Car Supplement from £40,000 to £50,000, which it says will save over a million EV drivers £440 per year. E Issue 162 |

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Budget 2025

Countdown to 2035

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F To incentive green infrastructure, the government will also introduce a ten-year 100 per cent business rates relief for EV chargepoints and EV-only forecourts, alongside a one-year extension to 100 per cent First Year Allowances for zero emission cars and electric vehicle chargepoint infrastructure.

The government has also said it will delay changes to benefit-in-kind rules for Employee Car Ownership Schemes until April 2030.

For those still in contracts at that time, transitional arrangements will also be put in place to provide additional support.

Industry reaction Vicky Edmonds, CEO of EVA England, said of the pay-per-mile scheme: “This is completely the wrong time to be taxing EV drivers when they still make up only five per cent of vehicles on UK roads.”

However, Vicky added: “It is good to see, finally, a promised future increase in fuel duty to encourage more drivers across to electric. But even with that, a Pay per Mile scheme in two years is unnecessarily rocking the boat at such a pivotal point for the market. We are willing to work with Government to ensure EV drivers pay their fair share, but this must be introduced sensibly to avoid slamming the brakes on the transition to electric vehicles.”

The Association of Fleet Professionals (AFP) is raising the importance of fleets responding to the new government

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consultation on Electric Vehicle Excise Duty to highlight potential problems.

Paul Hollick, chair, said that the industry body’s members broadly accepted the need for the government to recover revenue lost from petrol and diesel fuel duty but there were major concerns about the system being proposed.

“It’s just something of a hotch-potch,” commented Paul. “It’s not really payon-use and it’s not really retrospective charging. We’re struggling to see any advantages at all in this approach.”

Mike Peirce, executive director of systems change at global non-profit Climate Group, said: “Make no mistake, by adding a pay-per-mile tax on EVs, the Chancellor is gambling with the UK’s EV market just as it’s finding its muscle.”

“It threatens the Government’s approach to reducing emissions and reaching its own ZEV Mandate. In a highly competitive global race for electric vehicle investment this will leave investors confused.”

The 2025 Budget underlines the government’s attempt to strike a balance between maintaining tax revenues and sustaining momentum in the UK’s shift to electric vehicles. While extended grants, charging investment and targeted tax reliefs offer continued support, the planned mileage-based charge has raised concerns about slowing adoption at a critical stage of the transition.

Much will now depend on the outcome of the consultation and how sensitively the new measures are implemented. L

DRIVING THE SWITCH TO CLEANER FLEETS | www.greenfleet.net

Advertisement Feature

The AA: keeping fleets moving and future ready The AA supports drivers and businesses across every stage of their motoring journey – from accident management and insurance, to SMR, driver training and fleet electrification The AA is the UK’s largest roadside assistance organisation and much more. We’re proudly a multi-service provider, helping drivers and businesses with a wide range of services and solutions to keep them on the road and ‘Always Ahead’. Our vast range of services includes our award-winning accident management solutions, insurance, Driving School, service maintenance and repair from Prestige Fleet Servicing and driver training from Drivetech. Drivetech is the expert in innovative fleet risk solutions and driver safety training, helping fleets to stay safe, legally compliant and reduce costs.

The AA is also the UK’s number one when it comes to EV support services. From selling EVs with AA Cars and our industry-first EV charge post fix service, to SMR with Prestige

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Insight into government electric vehicle grants A new £650 million Electric Car Grant is helping to bring down the upfront cost of going electric for drivers and fleet operators, whilst also rewarding the most sustainably produced vehicles. With the plug-in van and truck grant also extended, we examine what funding is available to help lower the costs of moving to electric The UK’s transition to cleaner transport took a major step forward in July 2025 with the launch of a £650 million Electric Car Grant (ECG) – a scheme designed to make new battery electric cars more affordable while rewarding the most sustainable manufacturing practices.

Announced as part of the UK’s plan to move to zero-emission mobility, the grant tackles the high upfront cost that often acts as a barrier to adoption. By offering discounts of up to £3,750 at the point of sale, the ECG aims to close the price gap between ICE vehicles and electric models.

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A grant designed for sustainability What sets the Electric Car Grant apart from previous incentive schemes is its direct link to manufacturing sustainability. Eligibility is restricted to new battery electric cars priced at £37,000 or under, but crucially, models must also meet environmental benchmarks that look beyond tailpipe emissions.

The grant has two tiers. Cars that achieve the highest sustainability standards qualify for the maximum £3,750 discount, while those meeting core environmental criteria are eligible for

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£1,500. Vehicles that fail to meet the minimum standards will not receive any support – a move intended to recognise the importance of reducing embedded carbon across a vehicle’s entire lifecycle, not only when it’s on the road.

So far, eight vehicles meet the criteria for the full £3,750 discount, while a further 32 models qualify for the £1,500 grant. Manufacturers must apply for inclusion in the scheme, with the Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) assessing technical requirements and the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) evaluating each model’s environmental credentials. Funding for the scheme is confirmed until the 2028–29 financial year.

According to the government, the grant has already helped over 40,000 drivers choose electric since its launch in July.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander described the grant as both a practical saving for drivers

EV Grants & Funding

Eligibility of the electric car grant is restricted to new battery electric cars priced at £37,000 or under, but crucially, models must also meet environmental benchmarks that look beyond tailpipe emissions

and a strategic opportunity for UK industry. She said: “This EV grant will not only allow people to keep more of their hard-earned money – it’ll help our automotive sector seize one of the biggest opportunities of the 21st century.”

Growing consumer confidence Early signs suggest the grant is already shifting buyer behaviour. Ian Plummer, chief commercial Officer at Autotrader, noted a surge in interest for eligible EVs on the platform. He said: “The Electric Car Grant is helping to make electric cars more affordable for thousands E

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Countdown to 2035 EV Grants & Funding F of car buyers, which is vital if we are to accelerate the rate of adoption. We can clearly see the impact the grant is already having on consumer interest, with the number of people viewing grant eligible models on Autotrader increasing by over

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100 per cent in some instances. With news models added to the scheme, we will no doubt see similar levels of interest.”

Referring to a £25 million scheme to make it easier for residents without driveways to install home chargers, Plummer also commented: “EVs enjoy significant running cost benefits, but only when the cars can be charged mainly on driveways or cheaper off-street locations.

This investment is vital to ensure no driver is left behind on the journey to electric.”

AA President Edmund King echoed these sentiments, emphasising that upfront affordability remains a major sticking point for many motorists. “Drivers frequently tell us that the upfront costs of new EVs are a stumbling block. It is great to see some of these more substantial £3,750 discounts coming online because for some drivers, this might just bridge the financial gap to make these cars affordable.

As more cars qualify for the biggest savings, more drivers will be tempted to go electric.”

BEAMA CEO, Yselkla Farmer added: “BEAMA’s latest market pulse shows that the Electric Car Grant is leading to positive trends in new EV inquiries to date and its continued support

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by this government is a welcome measure, providing certainty and improving confidence for UK EV charge point manufacturers in the UK as the place to invest. With more cars becoming eligible for the top level of the grant the government’s ambitious ZEV mandate is becoming increasingly achievable.”

Support for vans and trucks It isn’t only car buyers who stand to benefit.

The government has also confirmed that the plug-in van and truck grants – a crucial source of support for tradespeople and logistics operators – will continue until at least 2027.

Under the scheme, small vans can receive discounts of up to £2,500, with large vans eligible for up to £5,000. Support extends further for heavier vehicles, with grants of up to £16,000 for small trucks and £25,000 for large trucks. Funding levels for the 2026–27 financial year will be confirmed in due course.

Major fleet operators have welcomed the decision. John Boumphrey, UK country manager at Amazon, called the extension “a critical step” in helping companies decarbonise.

“We welcome the government’s continued

commitment to supporting the electrification of commercial fleets. Decarbonising the transportation network is essential to achieving our goal of net-zero carbon emissions across our operations by 2040.”

For small businesses and tradespeople, the impact may be even more immediate.

Checkatrade CEO Jambu Palaniappan described the continuation of the grants as “a big boost for tradespeople across the UK,” noting that lower running costs, exemption from urban charges like ULEZ, and greater certainty over future regulations would help members “keep moving, win more work, and build a future that’s both cost-effective and sustainable.”

Driving the transition forward Together, the Electric Car Grant and the extended van and truck incentives represent a significant financial commitment towards EV adoption.

By lowering costs for drivers and businesses while rewarding sustainability in manufacturing, the government aims to accelerate the pace of change – and ensure the benefits of electric mobility are felt across the economy. L Issue 162 |

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Electrification of the UK truck fleet Electrifying heavy trucks remains challenging, but the sector can take valuable cues from the light commercial vehicle market, where depotbased fleets have led a successful shift to electric The electrification of the truck industry is some way behind the steady transition to EV that we have seen in the light commercial vehicle sector over the past five years.

With larger trucks (18 tonne and above) being responsible for most of the mileage and carbon emissions, it is understandable that much, if not all, of the focus has been on this sector. However, operators face significant financial, operational and energy and infrastructure challenges in making the move to EV. The truck industry could benefit greatly from the experience of the LCV sector; the fleets that have been particularly successful in their transition to EV are those that are depot-based and running small to medium size vans.

Smaller trucks, particularly those in the 7.5 tonne category, are ideally suited

to electrification. They are also largely depot-based, have predictable route profiles that usually fall well within the electric range of the trucks, can be charged overnight using low power or lower cost AC chargers and are much less likely to require site energy capacity upgrades.

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Energy Management

Princes Street charging hub in Dundee

From fleet manager to energy manager As fleets accelerate their shift to electric vehicles, managing energy becomes as critical as managing vehicles. From grid capacity and smart charging to onsite renewables and emerging V2X technology, fleet managers must navigate a rapidly evolving landscape Planning and delivering an electric vehicle charging project increasingly requires fleet managers to think like energy managers.

Grid capacity is often the first and most fundamental consideration, because the electricity available on site will dictate how many charge points can be installed, how quickly vehicles can be charged and what level of investment is required.

Understanding a site’s agreed supply capacity, its current energy demand and the headroom available for new loads helps prevent overloads and unexpected outages. Where capacity is

tight, upgrades may be possible through the district network operator, but these can be expensive and time-consuming. Many fleets therefore look to alternatives such as smart charging, which automatically adjusts charging power in line with real-time usage across the site, or onsite generation and storage, which can supplement the grid and reduce strain.

A site survey is essential to identify power requirements, location constraints and groundworks early, and rented premises add another layer of complexity as landlord approval and legal processes can extend timelines. E Issue 162 |

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Countdown to 2035 Energy Management F Intelligent charging Once the fundamentals of supply and installation are understood, attention often shifts to how charging can be managed

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intelligently over time. Demand-side response (DSR) is becoming increasingly relevant, particularly for fleets with predictable charging windows. By shifting charging to off-peak times or moments when renewable energy is abundant, fleets can reduce energy costs while supporting wider grid stability. Smart charging platforms can automate this process, turning parked EVs into flexible assets that help balance demand rather than add to it. As electricity systems decarbonise, this flexibility becomes more valuable, and fleet operators can benefit from incentives or reduced tariffs in exchange for providing it.

Interest is also growing in bi-directional technologies such as vehicle-to-grid (V2G), which enable EVs to discharge stored energy back into a building or the grid. For fleets with large dwell times, this turns vehicles into mobile energy storage units capable of supporting peak demand, smoothing renewable generation or even generating revenue.

V2G is part of a broader suite of technologies known collectively as Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X), which includes applications such as powering buildings directly (V2H) or operating equipment (V2L). While still emerging in commercial fleets, V2G pilots are

Renewable energy and storage Renewable energy and onsite storage systems add another dimension to a fleet charging strategy. By generating clean electricity through solar or wind technologies and storing excess in batteries, fleets can reduce their reliance on the grid, cut costs and increase control over their energy use. Energy Management Systems then coordinate when to charge, store or export power to optimise performance and cost. Dundee’s Princes Street charging hub illustrates what this can look like in practice.

The UK’s first EV charging facility to integrate solar canopies and battery storage, it combines 36kW of solar PV with a 90kWh battery that prioritises renewable energy for vehicles

Interest is growing in bidirectional technologies such as vehicle-to-grid (V2G), which enable EVs to discharge stored energy back into a building or the grid before exporting any surplus. Designed with scalability in mind, the hub can accommodate larger batteries and more powerful chargers as technology evolves, demonstrating a model that fleets can replicate at different scales.

Innovation continues to accelerate across the sector, and research and real-world application are converging to create smarter, more flexible charging ecosystems.

For fleet managers, this opens opportunities to reduce costs, improve sustainability performance and build resilience against future energy volatility. As fleet electrification gathers pace, integrating energy considerations into every stage of project planning, from capacity checks to smart systems and renewable integration, will be central to long-term operational success. L

Energy Management

demonstrating its potential. On the Isle of Wight, for example, the University of Salford and partners have deployed a bi-directional charger at a hotel as part of the DriVe2X project. Their smart algorithm determines when vehicles should charge or discharge based on energy prices, building needs and driver requirements. This approach not only reduces operational costs and emissions but also shows how EVs can meaningfully contribute to local energy resilience.

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Go beyond fleet decarbonisation by powering your future with on-site solar and storage Electrifying your fleet is vital, but true sustainability depends on charging those vehicles with clean and affordable power. On-site solar generation and battery storage is the most effective way to achieve this With rising energy costs, tightening emissions regulations, and the UK’s net zero commitments, fleet decarbonisation is now essential for logistics and transport businesses. Electrifying your fleet is a vital step, but true sustainability comes from powering those vehicles with clean, affordable, and reliable energy. The most effective way to achieve this is through on-site solar generation combined with battery storage.

As a professional solar PV developer and EPC provider, we understand the operational and financial pressures facing UK fleet operators.

While EVs cut tailpipe emissions, relying on volatile grid electricity can significantly increase running costs. Fleets also tend to be off-site during daylight hours, meaning solar energy isn’t available when charging is needed most. Storage solves this challenge by capturing daytime solar

power for overnight charging, reducing grid dependence and ensuring vehicle readiness.

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Countdown to 2035 Telematics

Better insight into the switch to cleaner vehicles As fleets face pressure to cut emissions and electrify, telematics and AI are emerging as essential tools, giving operators the data and insight they need to boost efficiency, improve safety and plan a confident transition to electric vehicles As the pressure mounts on fleet operators to transition to zero-emission vehicles, telematics and artificial intelligence (AI) are becoming indispensable. Together, these technologies offer data-driven insights that help fleets operate more efficiently today, as well as helping them confidently move to electric vehicles.

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Modern telematics systems provide operators with a wealth of real-time data, from vehicle location and speed to fuel consumption, maintenance needs and driver behaviour. With this level of detail, managers can identify patterns that result in inefficiencies or safety risks and introduce targeted interventions to address them.

AI is fuelling fleet optimisation AI is rapidly becoming central to fleet management, helping simplify what are now highly complex operations. From predictive maintenance and route optimisation to decarbonisation planning, AI automates the heavy analytical work needed to make informed decisions at scale. Increasingly, these tools simulate EV adoption scenarios, forecast long-term total cost of ownership

By analysing trip patterns, mileage, dwell times and charging needs, telematics tools determine which vehicles are best suited for replacement with electric models and advise on charging infrastructure needs.

Importantly, they place sophisticated analysis within reach of organisations that previously lacked the resources for in-house modelling, allowing even modest fleets to map out confident decarbonisation journeys.

Yet as AI becomes more deeply embedded in fleet operations, so do concerns around data security and privacy. Protecting sensitive information, ensuring ethical use of video footage and maintaining human oversight will be critical as organisations embrace increasingly automated systems. E

Telematics

For fleets looking to electrify, telematics is proving particularly transformative. By analysing trip patterns, mileage, dwell times and charging needs, telematics tools determine which vehicles are best suited for replacement with electric models.

This ensures that electrification strategies are grounded in evidence rather than assumptions, reducing risk, infrastructure requirements and operational disruption.

Telematics is also being used to increase the efficiency of existing electric vehicles, and to aid in emissions reporting.

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Countdown to 2035 Telematics

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F Telematics in action Belgium’s postal operator, bpost, is undertaking one of Europe’s most ambitious electrification projects, converting 10,000 last-mile delivery vans to electric by 2030. A quarter of the fleet has already made the switch, and the company has relied heavily on Geotab telematics to make the transition financially sustainable and operationally manageable.

A central challenge was understanding how often vehicles genuinely needed to charge. Without reliable data, bpost would have been forced to invest in costly highvoltage infrastructure capable of charging all vans simultaneously. With real-time telematics insights into state of charge, energy consumption and actual driving patterns, the company implemented a staggered charging strategy. This revealed that some vehicles required charging only every two to four days, dramatically reducing infrastructure costs and easing concerns about range among drivers.

Coaching based on individual energy-use patterns helped further improve efficiency.

Crucially, the data showed that electric vans were almost nine per cent cheaper than their diesel counterparts over their lifespan. This finding gave the organisation the confidence to expand its electric fleet to 3,000 vehicles by 2025.

Sustainability gains Telecoms provider Circet has transformed its fleet operations across the UK and Ireland

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by integrating telematics. 3,000 vehicles are conntected with Geotab and Lytx technology and within three months, Circet recorded a significant improvement in driver safety scores thanks to near real-time feedback from cameras and safety scorecard.

Fuel efficiency also increased, with diesel vehicles performing 10 per cent better than peer group leaders.

Telematics is also highlighting how Circet can further adopt electric vehicles. Over the first three months of 2025, electric vehicles accounted for three per cent of total fleet trips, covering more than 263,000 miles. According to an Electric Vehicle Suitability Assessment, Circet stands to save approximately £385,000 annually by expanding its electric fleet and swapping ICE vehicles for EV where appropriate.

With EV driving requiring different skills from traditional combustion vehicles, Circet has also used telematics data to inform driver training, aiming to extend EV range and reduce charging demand.

The company is also using telematics for Scope 1 emissions calculation to track fuel consumption and emissions reductions across both diesel and electric vehicles as it prepares for stricter ESG reporting requirements under EU legislation.

Countdown to 2035 Telematics

Using telematics to reach net zero United Utilities, which supplies water and wastewater services to three million homes and businesses across Northwest England, operates a fleet of more than 2,300 vehicles.

To improve reliability, reduce emissions and maintain safety across such a large operation, the company adopted Vodafone Business Fleet Analytics, powered by Geotab.

Real-time performance data now enables maintenance teams to spot issues before they become operational problems. Insights into idling, wear and tear and driver behaviour help the organisation cut fuel use, reduce emissions and improve safety. This is particularly important in a business where emergency response times are critical.

With a goal of achieving a fully green fleet by 2028, United Utilities is also using telematics to identify which vehicles can transition to electric, how infrastructure will need to evolve and what impact this will have on day-today operations. The data has been central to developing an environmental impact plan aligned with the company’s net-zero objectives.

A safer, smarter fleet Telecommunications infrastructure specialist MJ Quinn is deploying telematics from Webfleet

across its expanding fleet of 3,000 vehicles as part of a broader digital transformation.

More than 800 vehicles are already equipped, including vans used by engineers trained through the company’s academy.

The technology deployed offers real-time insight into driving behaviours such as distraction, speeding and mobile phone use.

Driver-facing cameras are activated only in high-risk cases once coaching has been provided, ensuring transparency and maintaining trust.

MJ Quinn expects substantial long-term savings through improved fuel efficiency, fewer incidents and better vehicle health.

The system is also set to guide the company toward its sustainability goals, using the technology to determine which vehicles can be electrified without compromising service levels.

Towards a more intelligent future Telematics and AI underpin informed decisionmaking, enhance safety, improve operational efficiency and accelerate the shift to zeroemission transport. Fleets that embrace datadriven technologies early can unlock immediate operational benefits while positioning themselves for long-term sustainability. L Issue 162 |

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Countdown to 2035 Expert Insight

EXPERT INSIGHT COUNTDOWN TO 2035

As the 2035 end-date for the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles approaches, fleets face growing pressure to prepare. Our experts reveal the risks of delaying action, explain the power of data-driven planning and ponder the emerging technologies redefining the sector The shift to zero-emission transport is no longer a distant ambition – it is a strategic reality that fleets must navigate today. With the UK’s 2035 phase-out of new internal combustion engine vehicles approaching, organisations across every sector are under increasing pressure to plan, invest and build the capabilities needed for a zero-carbon future.

But the transition is far from one-size-fits-all.

For some, electrification offers immediate operational and financial rewards; for others, barriers around charging, infrastructure and vehicle suitability still remain. What is clear is that the cost of waiting is rising.

At the same time, the wider fleet, automotive and transport landscape is undergoing a profound transformation. Advances in

telematics, AI-powered analytics and emerging energy technologies are redefining traditional fleet models – turning vehicles into data-rich assets and, increasingly, into energy assets capable of interacting with the grid itself.

In this Expert Insight feature, we bring together industry leaders to examine the practical, environmental and technological factors reshaping fleet strategy, and share advice on how fleets can confidently make the transition to electric. From the benefits of early adoption and the risks of inaction, to the pivotal role of AI, telematics and smart charging, their insights reveal how fleets can futureproof operations, unlock new efficiencies and even create entirely new sources of revenue. E Issue 162 |

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Countdown to 2035 Expert Insight

F Beyond 2035, new ICE cars and vans will no longer be sold.

What are the benefits of fleets preparing for this transition now, and what are the risks of waiting?

Fleets that initiate their electrification transition now are securing a significant, quantifiable advantage. Analysis from Geotab based on real-world telematics data, shows that 66 per cent of UK light-duty ICE vehicles can already switch, meaning they are both range-capable and economical today. Early adoption allows fleets to immediately capitalise on a lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), with Geotab’s data showing an average saving of £13,279 per vehicle over a typical seven-year service.

Waiting introduces significant strategic risks. Fleets that delay will face intense supply chain and infrastructure bottlenecks as the 2035 deadline nears, competing for limited vehicle production slots and, crucially, for grid connections and charging installation capacity, where lead times can already extend for years.

This delay also creates direct financial exposure to a landscape of rising carbonbased penalties, road usage charges, and restricted access to expanding Low and Zero Emission Zones.

What role does technology and AI play in helping fleets smoothly transition to electric vehicles?

AI-powered analytics show fleets exactly where to start. In a massive study, Geotab’s Electric Vehicle Suitability Assessment (EVSA) analysed over 91,000 vehicles in Enterprise Fleet Management’s fleet. It identified a projected £24.5 million saving by switching to EV and a 194,000-ton reduction in CO2 over four years. That is the role of technology: to build the business case.

Early adoption allows fleets to immediately capitalise on a lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), with Geotab’s data showing an average saving of £13,279 per vehicle over a typical seven-year service 40

Secondly, generative AI makes complex data accessible. In traditional fleet reporting, a question like, “How many miles did x drive?” requires a time-consuming, multi-step process: finding the report, setting filters, downloading data for manual work. If a follow-up question arises, “How does this compare to 2023?”, the entire process must be started from scratch.

Generative AI like Geotab Ace replaces this friction with conversational analytics.

Just ask questions in plain English and receive the information. This drastically reduces the time to insight, turning hours of complex reporting into a simple question.

Why is it important to have environmental regulation such as the ZEV mandate?

Regulations like the ZEV mandate are vital because they provide long-term market certainty.

We see this happening already, the UK’s electric vehicle market has seen massive growth.

However, the mandate creates a complex, decade-long transition. This is where data’s role becomes essential. It is crucial to use data to navigate this new reality, to find the truth to validate costs, which allows a fleet to analyse the reported aggressive discounts against a vehicle’s true TCO. Using data will also help fleets find immediate environmental benefits and savings today.

Data-driven insights help fleets find those immediate benefits. By tracking an EV’s real-world energy consumption to prove its TCO, and comparing this to the measurable inefficiencies of the remaining ICE fleet (e.g. fuel wasted from engine idling) data validates the mandate’s goals. The transition is not just compliant, but genuinely sustainable and more cost-effective from day one.

Aside from the move to zeroemission vehicles, how else do you see the fleet, automotive, and transport sectors changing in the next ten years?

Aside from electrification, the most profound change will be the redefinition of the fleet’s entire commercial model.

The sector will move from being a simple cost centre to a revenue-generating profit centre. This will be driven by two key dataled developments. The first is to view Fleets as an Energy Asset. The widespread adoption of Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology will be transformative. A depot of parked EVs

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will no longer be a dormant liability; it will become a virtual power plant, intelligently selling energy back to the grid during peak demand. The second development is seeing Fleets as a Data Commodity – fleets will leverage the value in their anonymised data. The aggregated insights from millions of vehicles, processed by platforms like Geotab, will become essential for smart city planning, predictive road maintenance, and real-time insurance models.

AI and autonomous systems are the enablers, but the true change is the fleet’s new role as a provider of both energy and data. E FURTHER INFORMATION

www.geotab.com

EXPERT

Expert Insight

Regulations like the ZEV mandate are vital because they provide long-term market certainty. We see this happening already, the UK’s electric vehicle market has seen massive growth.

However, the mandate creates a complex, decadelong transition

Abhinav Vasu, associate vice president, Geotab Abhinav Vasu is AVP Solutions Engineering, EMEA with over 18 years of experience in engineering and technology. Abhinav specialises in partnering with OEMs with his rich background in automotive engineering and extensive knowledge of automobile data and technology which enables Abhinav to consult and utilise vehicle data to empower fleets.

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Countdown to 2035 Expert Insight

F Beyond 2035, new ICE cars and vans will no longer be sold. What are the benefits of preparing for this transition now, and what are the risks of waiting?

Preparing early for the 2035 ban on new ICE vehicles allows organisations to futureproof their operations, spread investment costs and demonstrate their sustainability goals.

Early adopters can trial technology, optimise charging infrastructure and benefit from government incentives and lower running costs. Data’s key in this transition, and trials can help EV fleets refine policies and improve efficiency over time.

Delaying transition risks exposure to sudden capital costs, limited vehicle availability and insufficient charging capacity. Organisations that delay may also face reputational damage, non-compliance with emerging sustainability standards and higher total cost of ownership.

Acting now ensures a smooth, strategic transition rather than a reactive, costly shift.

Why is it important to have an environmental mandate such as this?

An environmental mandate like the 2035 ICE ban focuses collective efforts on achieving net zero goals. It provides certainty to manufacturers, encouraging innovation, scale and competition – ultimately driving down the cost of zero-emission vehicles. For businesses and fleets, it establishes a clear roadmap for investment and long-term planning, reducing risk and fostering sustainability-led decisionmaking. Beyond cost and technology benefits, such mandates deliver tangible environmental gains: cleaner air, reduced carbon emissions and healthier communities. By setting clear deadlines and standards, mandates accelerate progress that market forces alone might

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delay, ensuring widespread adoption and a meaningful shift toward low-carbon transport.

Aside from the move to zeroemission vehicles, how else do you see the profession of fleet management changing in the next ten years?

Over the next decade, fleet management will evolve from vehicle logistics to integrated mobility management. Advances in telematics, AI and data analytics are likely to enable efficiencies including predictive maintenance, route optimisation and dynamic cost control.

Sustainability reporting will become central, with fleet managers responsible for measuring and reducing emissions across all transport activities. Additionally, regulatory pressures and stakeholder expectations will push fleet managers to align with broader ESG goals. There will also need to be close working relationships between departments across organisations including fleet, sustainability, energy, finance, procurement in order to maintain efficient, sustainable and cost-effective fleet operations.

Those who adapt by embracing technology and sustainable practices will drive both efficiency and brand value.

Those switching to electric vans are coming across greater barriers than those moving to electric cars.

What are the main barriers and how could they be overcome?

Electric van adoption faces greater challenges than passenger car electrification due to factors such as limited model range, higher upfront costs and payload constraints.

Perhaps most crucially, there’s currently a scarcity of charging infrastructure – especially for larger or long-distance

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Countdown to 2035

fleets. Many operators also struggle with range anxiety and lack of accessible depot or on-street charging. Overcoming these barriers requires a coordinated approach: expanding model availability, investing in rapid and depot charging solutions, and offering targeted financial incentives.

Educating fleet operators through dataled case studies can build confidence, while partnerships with energy providers and local authorities can help integrate smart charging and grid solutions. Collaboration, infrastructure investment and operational flexibility are key to accelerating uptake. M FURTHER INFORMATION

energy.drax.com/ev

Expert Insight

Over the next decade, fleet management will evolve from vehicle logistics to integrated mobility management.

Advances in telematics, AI and data analytics are likely to enable efficiencies including predictive maintenanceand dynamic cost control

EXPERT Lyndsey Hetherington, EV charging specialist, Drax Electric Vehicles Lyndsey has worked in the electric vehicle charging sector for over a decade has focused on nurturing longterm client relationships based on trust and ensures that customer needs are always her top priority. Her role at Drax sees her specialising in private and public sector, fleet and workplace charging solutions.

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Advertisement Feature

Athlon: a proud winner at the 2025 GREENFLEET Awards Athlon UK has been named GREENFLEET’s Leasing Company of the Year (up to 20,000 vehicles) for 2025, recognising its rapid progress in sustainable fleet management and its commitment to a net-zero future

We are proud to have been named GREENFLEET’s Leasing Company of the Year (up to 20,000 vehicles) for 2025. This recognition is especially meaningful to us, as it celebrates not only our progress in sustainable fleet management, but also the shared commitment of our people, our partners, and our customers to a net-zero future.

Managing director, Patricia Wolfe, said: “Winning GREENFLEET’s Leasing Company of the Year Award is a major milestone for us. Just five years ago we were opening the doors of Athlon UK for the first time, this award recognises how hard we have worked to turn our ambitions into action. The acknowledgement reflects the dedication of our team, our partners, and our customers who have put their trust in Athlon to ensure their fleet strategies are greener, smarter and future-proof.”

Today, over 60 per cent of our fleet is made up of battery electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles – a 10 per cent year-onyear increase. More than 40 per cent of our colleagues, and over 90 per cent of our senior leadership team, now commute using EVs or hybrids, supported by our company car

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scheme. These milestones are a testament to the shared ambition and enthusiasm that runs throughout our business.

Our approach is all about collaboration – combining environmental responsibility with operational efficiency and road safety.

Innovations like Athlon360, incorporating our EVReady tool, help drivers and fleet operators make the switch to electric vehicles; using telematics and interactive surveys to provide tailored insights and support. Our partnerships, whether with suppliers, charities, or our customers, are central to our progress and impact.

We’re also making a difference through operational changes, from going paperless to expanding our remarketing networks, all helping to reduce our environmental footprint. As our chief commercial officer, Lesley Slater, put it: “From the first TCO calculation and EVReady report through to the significant reduction in our end of contract defleet mileage, our approach is pragmatic and data-led. We focus on wholelife cost, driver experience and operational uptime, all underpinned by a commitment to sustainability. We are very proud of the whole team who’ve contributed to this award.”

To find out more about how Athlon can help your fleet on their journey to a fully electric fleet, book a free consultation with one of our team today. M FURTHER INFORMATION

www.athlon.com/uk/

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GREENFLEET Awards

21 years of celebrating fleet decarbonisation excellence The 21st edition of the GREENFLEET Awards took place on 4 December and celebrated the organisations, individuals and innovations driving fleet decarbonisation. Here’s an in-depth look at the winners The ceremony, which took place at Coventry Building Society Arena, was presented by professional quizzer and comedian Paul Sinha and saw over 20 awards presented to deserving organisations and individuals that have shown outstanding progress, ambition and leadership in fleet and transport decarbonisation.

The 2025 edition of the event marked the 21st year of the GREENFLEET Awards, a milestone that demonstrates the groundbreaking developments occurring in the sector over the years. Amongst the award winners were pioneering fleet operators reducing their environmental impact, vehicle manufacturers enhancing their green vehicle range and suppliers helping fleets progress on their journey to zero emissions.

Recognising outstanding achievement This year also saw the renaming of GREENFLEET’s Award for Outstanding Achievement. In honour of the late Quentin Willson, the accolade has been renamed the Quentin Willson Award for Outstanding Achievement.

Quentin, who passed away in November 2025 at the age of 68, was a long-standing collaborator with GREENFLEET and an early advocate for electric vehicles and low-emission motoring.

The newly named award was presented to Kate Armitage, who has been a strong advocate of the electrification of transport since 2010 and is a long-standing GREENFLEET friend and Ambassador, having hosted numerous roundtables, events and interviews over the years. Kate previously headed up the EV Team at EDF Energy, and was projects director at Route Monkey. She has also been involved in a range of ground-breaking projects including the design and technical specification of the recharging infrastructure for the London 2012 Olympic Electric Vehicle Fleet.

IT Innovation Award The IT Innovation examines the latest advancements in fleet technology. Octopus Electroverse won this award for its innovative use of technology to bring together a suite of tools, known as Octopus Fleet, that simplifies E Issue 162 |

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GREENFLEET Awards

F fleet electrification – from unified payment cards and a centralised fleet management platform to home-charging reimbursement and salary-sacrifice for public charging.

Mobility Provider of the year The Mobility Provider of the Year award recognises efforts to reduce the environmental impact of business and fleet travel with innovative measures such as zero-emission vehicles, car clubs, car sharing, flexible rental and leasing, as well as the promotion of public transport and active travel.

PragmaCharge was crowned winner for transforming freight electrification into a true mobility service. By uniting electric trucks, tailored charging infrastructure and intelligent fleet management into one package, the company removes the barriers that slow operators’ shift to zero-emission mobility.

Leasing Company of the Year The Leasing Company of the Year award is presented to large and small leasing companies (sub and post 20,000 vehicles) that can demonstrate policies and an ethos focused on sustainability, emissionsreduction and the transition to net zero.

Taking home the Leasing Company of the Year award in the up-to-20,000-vehicles category was Athlon, celebrated for its holistic approach to sustainable motoring and road safety. With over 60 per cent of its fleet now BEV/PHEV, Athlon also offers complimentary EV charging at its Milton Keynes campus powered partly by solar energy. Other innovations include its EVReady tool which helps drivers switch to EVs by assessing fleets using telematic data.

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The Leasing Company of the Year Award in the over-20,000-vehicle category, sponsored by Geotab, was presented to Lex Autolease & Tusker. Lex Autolease, part of Lloyds Banking Group, manages 350,000 vehicles and is a central driver of UK fleet decarbonisation, funding one in eight ULEVs on UK roads. Through salary sacrifice, used-EV leasing, and “try before you buy” eLCV schemes, Lex and Tusker make electrification accessible and cost-effective.

Alternative Fuel Provider of the Year The Alternative Fuel Provider of the Year award, sponsored by the AA, celebrates the alternative fuel provider that can demonstrate an innovative approach to helping fleets reduce emissions by adopting alternative fuels such as gas, hydrogen, LPG, and HVO. The 2025 recipient of this award was Fuel Cell Systems, in recognition of the company’s pioneering hydrogen refuelling solutions. Through modular, scalable systems like the HyQube and strategic projects including the UK’s first hydrogen freight corridor, the company is supporting the UK’s transition to a hydrogen-powered future.

Public & On-Street Charging Provider of the Year This award recognises the public and onstreet charging provider that can demonstrate excellence in its customer satisfaction and reliability rates, as well as its efforts to tackle challenges to EV adoption through its solutions.

This year’s winner was MFG (Motor Fuel Group), who was celebrated for its fast nationwide rollout of ultra-rapid charging, installing more than 1,000 bays across 170 hubs in just four

GREENFLEET Awards

years and transforming convenience with a dual-fuel, customer-centred forecourt model.

Fleet & Workplace Charging Provider of the Year The Fleet & Workplace Charging Provider of the Year award recognises the charging provider that can demonstrate successful fleet and workplace charging installations and a willingness to go above-and-beyond to help customers with their infrastructure requirements.

Zaptec scooped this award, celebrated for its future-ready fleet charging solutions, with the Zaptec Pro at the heart of its offering. It’s Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) capable, MID-certified for accurate cost tracking, and fully OCPP 1.6 compliant, ensuring seamless integration with third-party software and fleet management platforms.

HGV Manufacturer of the Year The HGV Manufacturer of the Year award recognises the manufacturer of Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGV) over 7.5 Tonnes that can demonstrate innovative thinking in its design and production of zero-emission trucks, and can illustrate a focus on sustainability in its manufacturing processes.

The 2025 edition of the event marked the 21st year of the GREENFLEET Awards, a milestone that demonstrates the groundbreaking developments occurring in this sector over the years

The 2025 recipient of this title was Volvo Trucks for its full UK line-up of electric trucks, from FL and FE Electric to FH, FM, and FMX Electric models. Volvo combines zero-emission performance, and real-world reliability, helping fleets like DSV and Amazon achieve immediate carbon reductions.

LCV Manufacturer of the Year The LCV Manufacturer of the Year award recognises vehicle makers that can demonstrate innovative thinking in their design and production of zero-emission light commercial vehicles, and can illustrate a focus on sustainability in their manufacturing processes.

Farizon Auto UK won the 2025 award, recognised for the impressive performance and versatility of its SV electric van. Launched in the UK in 2025, the SV has won praise from fleet managers, drivers and tradespeople alike for its range, payload, cargo space, and innovative driver comfort features, while Farizon’s strong aftercare network and rapid parts support, ensures vans spend more time on the road.

Fleet and EV Manufacturer of the Year The Fleet Car Manufacturer of the Year award is presented to the car manufacturer that has improved its zero-emission fleet offerings and can illustrate success with fleet buyers and on company car lists.

The 2025 winner of this award was BYD in recognition of its rapid rise as a leader in reliable, efficient and highly competitive electric vehicles, underpinned by its advanced Blade Battery technology.

Meanwhile, the EV Manufacturer of the Year award is presented to the battery-electric vehicle (BEV) manufacturer with the E Issue 162 |

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GREENFLEET Awards

F most impressive EV line-up, demonstrating good battery range and advanced features to facilitate the ease of electric driving.

BMW was crowned winner of this title in recognition of its high performing electric line-up, advanced technology and exceptional build quality. Standout vehicles include the iX3, which boasts a long range of up to 500 miles.

Public Sector Car Fleet of the Year The Public Sector Car Fleet of the Year is presented to the organisation that can demonstrate excellent progress in its journey to a zero-emission fleet through the adoption to electric cars and other innovative measures.

National Highways won this accolade in recognition of the challenging task of decarbonising a round-the-clock operational fleet. Now all 900 cars and vans are either PHEV or BEV, and all ICE vehicles have been removed from the fleet. By March 2026, 56 per cent of the fleet will be pure EV, whilst the remainder will be PHEV. Public Sector Commercial Fleet of the Year Likewise, the Public Sector Commercial Fleet of the Year award is presented to organisation that can illustrate CO2reduction through the adoption of zero and low-emission vans and trucks.

The worthy 2025 winner was Yorkshire Ambulance Service, recognised for rolling out the country’s largest electric passenger transport

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fleet and building extensive charging and training programmes to support it. Its coordinated approach has laid essential groundwork for future zero-emission ambulances.

Private Sector Car Fleet of the Year This award, sponsored by Drax Electric Vehicles, is presented to the private sector organisation that can demonstrate progress in its journey to a zero-emission fleet through the adoption of electric cars.

Sherbet, The Electric Taxi Co, won this year’s award in recognition of operating a 96 per cent electric fleet of more than 530 vehicles and driving major reductions in urban emissions. Through infrastructure investment and strong driver support, it has created a scalable, commercially successful model for zero-emission taxi fleets.

Private Sector Commercial Fleet of the Year The Private Sector Commercial Fleet of the Year Award, presented by Flexis, is presented to the organisation that can illustrate CO2reduction through the adoption of zero and low-emission vans and trucks, as well as innovative-thinking to overcome challenges.

Royal Mail won the award for its impressive scale and speed of fleet decarbonisation.

Over 8,000 EVs, 3,000 charge points, HGV electrification trials, and extensive workforce training have delivered a 27 per cent emissions reduction.

GREENFLEET Vehicle of the Year The coveted title of Vehicle of the Year is awarded to GREENFLEET’s choice of the most impressive zero-emission vehicle, in

terms of range, technological innovation, design, and charging capabilities.

Mercedes-Benz Trucks won this prestigious recognition for its eActros 600, highlighting its performance and efficiency and ability to make sustainable long-haul freight a reality.

Offering a range of up to 310 miles per charge and rapid charging using the advanced Megawatt Charging System, the vehicle is redefining cleaner freight operations.

GREENFLEET Awards

Public and Private Sector Fleet Managers There are two awards recognising an individual fleet manager in both the public and private sectors, recognising their work driving progress, success and innovation in fleet decarbonisation.

The Public Sector Fleet Manager of the Year award was presented to Chris Demetriou from the London Borough of Islington, who has shown exceptional leadership in delivering one of the UK’s most advanced local authority fleet electrification programmes. Under his direction, Islington has transitioned more than 120 vehicles from diesel to electric – including 17 fully electric HGVs – cutting annual CO2 emissions by over 500 tonnes, despite a growing fleet. He has championed innovation, from repowering refuse trucks to pioneering V2G technology and sharing charging infrastructure with the Metropolitan Police.

The Private Sector Fleet Manager of the Year Award, sponsored by Dawsongroup Vans, was awarded to Gordon McCormick from Uniserve, who has driven a bold transition to Bio-LNG trucks – achieving up to 95 per cent CO2 reductions compared with diesel – while also deploying Longer Semi-Trailers to maximise load efficiency and leading the installation of HVO and biofuel infrastructure.

Industry Innovation The GREENFLEET Award for Industry Innovation award is presented to the organisation that can illustrate cutting-edge thinking in a project or method to eliminate CO2 emissions from transport, bringing wider benefits to the fleet industry.

Paua won this award for Paua Share which transforms idle depot chargers into a nationwide shared charging network by intelligently matching fleet demand with underused infrastructure. By opening up underused chargers to nearby fleets outside business hours, the platform gives depot owners a new revenue stream while offering operators reliable, secure and significantly cheaper charging.

EV Champions The 2025 GREENFLEET Awards also presented its annual EV Champion Awards, which are now in their 13th year. They are presented to individuals working in the fleet, transport, and automotive industries that advocate for electric vehicles. The 2025 EV Champions were Gill Nowell from Hosted by Gill, David Costelloe from Costelloes EV; Sarah Gray from Dawsongroup Vans; Martin Hale from Qwello; and Vicky Read from ChargeUK. The Electric Fleet Race This year also saw the return of Rightcharge’s Electric Fleet Race Award, which gives special recognition to the largest EV fleet within the initiative.

Launched at the start of 2024, the Electric Fleet Race offers a monthly insight into the organisations leading the way in EV numbers. This year there were three awards recognising fleets in the small, medium and large categories. The winners were Eric Wright Group, Skanska, and Royal Mail. L FURTHER INFORMATION

events.greenfleet.net/greenfleet-awards Issue 162 |

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Your father-in-law spent £169,000 to prove you wrong.

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Zaptec Go 2 is built for reliability and ready for what’s next When planning an electric vehicle (EV) charging project, it’s essential to future-proof your infrastructure from day one. The first point to consider is scalability. This involves choosing solutions that can grow with your fleet, so you’re ready for tomorrow’s needs as well as today’s.

Smart power management should also be considered. This will help avoid costly power upgrades by selecting chargers with advanced load and phase balancing technology.

The final consideration is data and control.

This involves ensuring your system provides real-time data for operational oversight, cost management, and easy reimbursement.

The new Zaptec Go 2 brings next-level charging to fleets, workplaces and home charging. With MID-certified accuracy, solar integration, and robust safety features, Zaptec Go 2 is designed for today and tomorrow.

It is equipped with ISO 15118-ready, bidirectional (V2G) hardware. When

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Roundtable Review

Road-to-Zero Roundtable: Scotland With ambitious net-zero targets, a strong renewable energy record and a rapidly expanding EV charging network, Scotland’s move towards zero-emission transport is impressive. But as fleets electrify, questions remain over infrastructure and readiness.

Industry leaders gathered in Glasgow for GREENFLEET’s Road to Zero roundtable to share progress and examine the challenges

Scotland has made significant progress in its transition to zero-emission transport. In 2022, the Scottish Government launched the £30 million Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Fund, enabling local authorities to work in partnership with the private sector to deliver strategic investment in EV charging infrastructure nationwide.

In October 2024, Scotland reached its target of 6,000 public EV charge points – two years ahead

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of the original 2026 deadline. This milestone was achieved through a combination of public funding and growing private-sector investment.

The country’s progress reflects its ambitious environmental commitments. Scotland aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2045, five years earlier than the UK-wide target of 2050. It also performs exceptionally well in renewable energy generation; in 2022,

DRIVING THE SWITCH TO CLEANER FLEETS | www.greenfleet.net

Sharing experiences To examine Scotland’s progress towards zeroemission transport, alongside the challenges facing fleet operators, representatives from public and private sector organisations gathered at Hampden Park in Glasgow on 23 October 2025 for GREENFLEET’s Road to Zero roundtable series.

The event was hosted by Dundee City Council Councillor Lynne Short, with discussions highlighting the challenges and opportunities of switching to electric vehicles.

The critical importance of having charging infrastructure in place before buying electric vehicles was raised. Without the right infrastructure, delegates agreed, fleet electrification risks becoming impractical.

While Scotland’s public charging network is relatively strong, fleets that depend on it can still face challenges, including faulty chargers and queuing – issues that are particularly problematic for emergency service fleets.

Delegates noted that fleets operating predictable routes and mileages can

transition to electric vehicles more easily.

By contrast, fleets with variable usage patterns face greater complexity.

The benefits of shared depot charging were also explored. Stagecoach has invested in high-powered DC charging hubs and is making these facilities available to police forces in the North East. Similarly, First Bus has opened parts of its depot charging infrastructure to other businesses, fleet operators, and, in some locations such as Glasgow, the public.

By sharing its growing network of 15 depots, First Bus is helping to address gaps in highpower charging provision for commercial EVs. Charging speed was another key theme. As electric van technology advances, vehicles are increasingly capable of accepting faster charges, helping to offset limitations in driving range.

Finally, the importance of data was emphasised. Data plays a vital role in identifying which vehicles are suitable for electrification and, once deployed, supports a phased transition strategy.

Information gathered from charger backoffice systems can provide valuable insights, helping organisations refine and futureproof their electric vehicle strategies. L

Roundtable Review

Scotland produced more electricity from renewable sources than it consumed.

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Issue 162 |

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Fleet Interview

The transition to a fully electric support fleet Operating the Docklands Light Railway demands a fleet that runs around the clock, and Keolis Amey Docklands has now made that fleet fully electric. Simon Kidsley explains how the company has delivered a seamless transition from diesel to electric Keolis Amey Docklands (KAD), responsible for operating and maintaining the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) network in London, has electrified its car and van fleet, four and a half years ahead of the contract deadline.

A legacy petrol and diesel fleet with demanding operational needs has been replaced with 39 electric vans and six electric cars, including vehicles that have typically been challenging to electrify, such as vans with tail lifts and flatbeds.

Here we speak to Simon Kidsley, fire and fleet assurance manager at KeolisAmey Docklands, to find out more.

Can you provide an overview of Keolis Amey Docklands’ fleet and how your vehicles are utilised?

The fleet is made up of 45 vehicles in total.

Our car fleet consists of six Ford Gen-E Pumas and our 39 Vans are made up of

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Ford Transit E-Customs, E-Tourneos and E-Transits which are all under 3.5 tonnes.

The fleet vehicles are used to support the running of the DLR on a 24-hour basis by carrying equipment and personnel to various different sites in and around the railway network.

When did your fleet decarbonisation journey start?

Our journey into the procurement of the new fleet started in January 2024 when we contacted one of suppliers who we had eight electric vehicles with at the time. We tasked them with providing details on manufacturers who could supply the entire range of EVs that we needed. We previously had three different manufactures and wanted to streamline our fleet to one manufacturer to make management of the vehicles as simple as possible. We currently have 28 new fleet vehicles.

Fleet Interview

What charging infrastructure have you implemented to support your electric vehicles?

We are currently expanding our charging infrastructure significantly. Alongside our existing four dual-connection chargers, we are in the process of installing an additional 25 new EV charge points to ensure our fleet has the capacity it needs as electrification accelerates.

What challenges have you encountered during your electrification journey?

Not every manufacturer could provide the entire range of vehicles we needed; we only found one manufacturer (Ford) who could provide the entire range to suit our requirements. We also needed to upgrade our charging infrastructure to cope with the increase in electric vehicles.

What are your future plans and priorities in relation to decarbonisation?

Keolis Amey Docklands 25 (KAD25) is committed to operating and maintaining the Docklands Light Railway in a way that supports a lowcarbon, resilient, and environmentally responsible transport system. We recognise the environmental impacts of our operations and the importance of addressing these proactively to ensure long-term operational viability and contribute to a sustainable future.

A legacy petrol and diesel fleet with demanding operational needs has been replaced with 39 electric vans and six electric cars, including vehicles that have typically been challenging to electrify, such as vans with tail lifts and flatbeds KAD25 is actively implementing its Carbon Reduction Plan, which outlines clear pathways to achieving net zero emissions, and is delivering a suite of environmental improvement initiatives across the business.

We are delivering our Carbon Reduction Plan, including targeted actions to reduce Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions, and tracking progress against defined milestones.

The company is also improving energy efficiency across operations, including station and depot upgrades, fleet energy optimisation, and smart monitoring systems.

Finally, we are applying circular economy principles, prioritising reuse, recycling, recovering materials, and minimising waste generation. L Issue 162 |

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Freight & Logistics

The latest push for greener logistics The latest round of the government’s Freight Innovation Fund is backing nine pioneering technologies, offering fleet managers a glimpse of what a cleaner, smarter and more efficient logistics could look like Moving 1.6 billion tonnes of goods each year, the UK freight sector is the backbone of the national economy. It has never been quicker or more efficient, yet this success comes with a significant environmental cost. Freight remains one of the UK’s largest contributors to domestic carbon emissions, and as fleet managers know all too well, the pressure to decarbonise is intensifying from customers, regulators and supply chain partners alike. Against this backdrop, the Government’s Freight Innovation Fund (FIF) is helping to bring about the technology needed to spark change.

Launched in January 2023 and funded by the Department for Transport (DfT), the FIF is designed to accelerate the development and commercialisation of technologies that can transform how freight moves across the UK. Delivered by Connected Places Catapult, the programme takes a cross-modal approach, supporting innovations that improve the

entire end-to-end freight journey. Its mission is not simply to identify clever ideas, but to trial them in real-world operations with genuine fleet and logistics partners, building a pipeline of solutions that can scale across the sector.

The latest round of the Freight Innovation Fund Accelerator marks a significant step forward. Nine SMEs have been awarded up to £130 million to test technologies that promise to reshape logistics through decarbonisation, efficiency gains, digital intelligence and staff wellbeing. These companies, outlined below – will each receive up to £130,000 to take their innovations from concept to on-the-ground trials.

For fleet managers searching for credible, scalable ways to cut emissions, the technologies now being tested reveal both the diversity of solutions coming to market and the rapidly growing readiness of the sector to adopt them. E Issue 162 |

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Your fleet may be switching to electric, hydrogen or hybrid— but one thing remains constant: safety is a priority.

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For fleet managers searching for credible, scalable ways to cut emissions, the technologies now being tested reveal both the diversity of solutions coming to market and the readiness of the sector to adopt them

Freight & Logistics

F Empty and underused vehicles Anteam is tackling one of road freight’s most persistent inefficiencies: empty and underused vehicles. With around 30 per cent of HGVs running empty, the company’s AI platform matches unused transport capacity with real-time demand. By sitting on top of existing transport management systems, the platform enables operators to share routes, reduce mileage and validate carbon savings through audited calculations. Early trials with major pharmacy chains have shown striking results, including emissions reductions of up to 85 per cent and cost savings of up to 60 per cent, and the new FIF-backed trial with partners including Welch Group and Baxter Freight, aims to prove the model at scale.

Where Anteam is focused on data and utilisation, Berkeley Coachworks is rethinking the hardware itself. Drawing on advanced composite materials and aerodynamic techniques more commonly found in motorsport, the company has developed a new generation of lightweight trailers designed to cut emissions both in manufacturing and on the road. Working again with Welch Group, the trial will measure real-world fuel savings, durability and the ease with which the trailers can integrate into day-to-day fleet operations.

GoLink Advisory Group is turning its attention to high-speed rail as a genuine alternative for long-distance parcel movements. Combining new electric Class 93 locomotives with electric HGVs, its trial will examine a fully integrated, low-carbon linehaul solution for the courier, express and parcel market. The project, delivered with DPD UK, will test realtime tracking, seamless transfers between modes and whether time-critical volumes can reliably move by rail. If successful, it could open the door to a new era of fast, trusted, digitally visible rail freight.

Optimal Cities is providing a digital mapping and intelligence platform that uses satellite and sensor data to identify safety risks, E

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Freight & Logistics

F worker pressure points and environmental impacts across ports and depots. By giving managers a clear, real-time view of stress hotspots and operational inefficiencies, the system is designed to support safer routing, improved staff wellbeing and faster planning approvals. Trials with Wincanton, Portsmouth International Port and Port of Tyne will examine the platform’s ability to reduce incident risk and improve resilience.

Rhevia will be using the funding to capture a high level of visibility into the movement of people, trailers and vehicles. Its privacypreserving radar technology detects movement in three dimensions, building a live digital picture of operations. Working with Portsmouth International Port and DFDS, the company aims to model the entire trailer journey from gate arrival to vessel loading, enabling predictive insights that improve compliance, reduce safety risks and make port operations more efficient.

Urban logistics SLANT Sustainable Technologies, meanwhile, is focusing on urban logistics. The company is developing an electric assistance system that can be fitted to bike trailers, helping couriers move heavier loads without having to rely on vans. The approach is modular and low-cost, designed for small operators for whom full fleet replacement is unrealistic.

Partnering with The Pedal Collective in Bristol, the trial will study rider fatigue, speed, safety and the potential to replace short van trips in congested city environments.

The wellbeing of freight workers is also the focus for SpatialCortex Technology, which is trialling MOVA, a wearable AI-driven solution that monitors posture, strain and movement to reduce musculoskeletal disorder risks. Unlike traditional ergonomic assessments, MOVA

provides continuous real-world monitoring and instant feedback. The trial, delivered with Port of Tyne, DHL and Portsmouth International Port, aims to show that the system can help reduce high-risk exposures by more than a quarter while improving the productivity of risk assessments severalfold.

Supply Chain Analysis is supporting the maritime sector with an AI-powered planning tool designed to reduce congestion and improve the coordination of trailers in ferry operations.

By forecasting dwell times, destinations and handling needs before trailers arrive, the system can optimise yard space, vessel loading and lorry appointments. DFDS will put the tool to the test, with expected outcomes including faster vessel turnarounds and lower fuel consumption from yard machinery.

Finally, Zizo is bringing powerful but accessible data analytics to freight operators through its Confluence platform. By integrating vast datasets and using GenAI to tailor insights to specific users, the platform is designed to break down the barriers that often limit the use of data. Working with Welch Group and Portsmouth International Port, Zizo aims to highlight opportunities ranging from predictive maintenance to better warehouse availability and more efficient port or depot operations.

Together, these projects illustrate a freight sector undergoing rapid transformation.

From AI-enabled HGV sharing to electric bike trailers, and from high-speed rail alternatives to smart ports, the solutions emerging from the Freight Innovation Fund are being tested now, in real fleets and real ports, with measurable emissions and efficiency benefits.

For fleet managers tasked with decarbonising operations, innovation is happening to develop a cleaner, more efficient and more resilient freight system. L Issue 162 |

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We connect your fleet, so you can drive results.

From vehicles to charging and data, Flexis unifies your entire ecosystem, giving you the insights, efficiency, and uptime that matter most.

flexis-mobility.com

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The smartest route to 2035 starts with your data Matt Hawkins, head of UK & IR markets at Flexis, explains why the next decade of fleet transformation depends on insight, connection & guidance The road to zero emissions is no longer defined by the vehicle alone. Electrification is vital, but it’s data that will truly determine which fleets succeed in this new era.

Every route, charge, and delivery leaves behind a trail of information waiting to be understood. Fleets that learn to interpret and act on this intelligence today will unlock the performance, efficiency, and cost savings that others chase tomorrow.

Optimising operations isn’t simply about technology adoption; it’s about using the data already at our fingertips to make smarter, faster, and more sustainable decisions.

The next generation of fleet leaders will treat data as an operational asset; a living pulse that connects vehicles, drivers, charging infrastructure, and business goals. It’s this intelligent integration that will transform commercial mobility from reactive to predictive, from siloed to connected.

Successful and efficient fleets of the future will be powered by more than just electricity they will be supported by a carefully-designed, powerful and connected ecosystem. And it’s through this lens that Flexis is helping fleets move from data overload to data optimisation, shaping a cleaner, smarter road to 2035. M FURTHER INFORMATION

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Alternative Fuels

Fire engines need extra power for water pumping and need to be ready to go anywhere, anytime, so fast refuelling and autonomy from the grid is needed

The hydrogen gap: why infrastructure holds the key As the UK faces the challenge of decarbonising its heavy-duty fleets, hydrogen remains one of the few realistic zero-emission options for vehicles that need long ranges, minimal downtime and fast refuelling.

Amanda Lyne, chair of the Hydrogen Energy Association, examines the current state of hydrogen in road transport and what needs to change For fleet managers tasked with cutting emissions while keeping deliveries, services and operations running on time, hydrogen is no longer a niche technology - it is a practical necessity.

Battery-electric vehicles excel for lighter duty cycles, but HGVs, buses, refuse trucks and high-mileage vans face limits of range, payload and charging time. Hydrogen offers fast refuelling, high power, and reliability, yet the UK’s hydrogen infrastructure remains patchy.

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Why hydrogen matters for heavy fleets It’s clear that not every vehicle can run on batteries alone. For the UK’s heavyduty, high-use operations – supermarket delivery trucks covering hundreds of miles 24/7, refuse lorries working through all weathers, or emergency vehicles that must never be caught short of power – practical zero-emission options are still few.

Battery-electric technology is making progress for cars and light vans, but heavier,

DRIVING THE SWITCH TO CLEANER FLEETS | www.greenfleet.net

longer-duty uses are another matter. Long charging times, reduced cargo capacity due to heavier batteries, limited range and the space needed for depot infrastructure all make full electrification a daunting prospect for many operators. That’s why hydrogen needs to be in the mix as a practical solution.

Hydrogen-powered vehicles offer rapid refuelling, typical payloads and consistent performance, making them well-suited to demanding daily operating schedules.

Emergency services, construction firms, supermarket logistics and local authority operations all have energy-hungry equipment and minimal downtime.

At present, government current stance suggests hydrogen is relevant for “niche” applications. However, for many heavy-duty fleets, at such an early stage in the transition, hydrogen is not considered an optional extra. It may be the only practical way to achieve zero emissions. Understanding what is needed to make it viable for mainstream operations is now a pressing challenge.

Alternative Fuels

Despite interest, the UK’s hydrogen refuelling network remains severely limited.

Most operators who might want to trial or deploy hydrogen vehicles simply have few places to fill them

The hydrogen picture today Despite interest, the UK’s hydrogen refuelling network remains severely limited. Most operators who might want to trial or deploy hydrogen vehicles simply have few places to fill them. Unlike diesel, which can be refuelled almost anywhere, hydrogen requires an entirely new supply chain – and at present, there are very few places across the country where vehicles can actually be refuelled.

The hydrogen supply chain has four main stages. Production needs to be low-carbon, such as from electrolysis using renewables or reforming with carbon capture, which will then be typically located in industrial clusters with space and a reliable energy source, such as Teesside or the Humber. Hydrogen is then E

A gritter truck is an example of an application that uses power take off and is used in cold weather, so needs more range than batteries can provide

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Alternative Fuels

A highways maintenance truck is an example of a vehicle needing power take off

F compressed and transported in tankers or tube trailers, usually within 100 miles of the site to keep deliveries viable. On arrival, it is stored, sometimes further compressed, and dispensed, often chilled, to allow for fast, safe refuelling.

Fleets need two complementary types of infrastructure: back-to-base depots, where predictable operations such as refuse collection or bus routes can refuel on site; and public stations along key highways and motorways, supporting longhaul or multi-site logistics operations.

Feedback from the Road Haulage Association underlines this: hauliers see the lack of both public and depot-level facilities as a barrier to adopting any zeroemission technology, hydrogen included.

A handful of UK projects show what’s possible. HyHAUL, the hydrogen highway initiative, is demonstrating the kind of public-access refuelling points that will be needed along major routes. In London and Crawley, bus depots have been proving that high-volume, back-to-base hydrogen operations can work efficiently, even if they’re not open to other fleets.

The Ryze facility at Tyseley, with on-site production and buses as the base load, also allows public access - and therefore represents a more flexible model. Meanwhile,

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A heavy duty road sweeper uses lots of energy for the vacuum and is payload constrained

Air Products at Heathrow provides a smallerscale example for local fleet refuelling.

Aberdeen continues to lead with two operational stations and a third due online shortly, alongside a joint venture with BP to deliver a large depot-scale facility. A publicly accessible site is also expected in Teesside early next year.

Beyond these, there are only a handful of very small, private or research installations including one in Wales supporting Riversimple’s hydrogen cars and another at Toyota Deeside in North Wales.

Compare this to mainland Europe, where hydrogen valleys and regional hubs are being rolled out with coordinated support from EU and regional funds, and we see the problem.

The UK currently has no national plan, no policy framework and no funding mechanism

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A hydrogen roadmap If the UK is serious about cutting carbon from heavy-duty transport, hydrogen needs more than words of encouragement - it needs a plan.

The good news is that the changes required are not vast, but they are vital. Industry groups such as the Hydrogen Energy Association argue that with modest, welltargeted interventions, the government could transform hydrogen from a theoretical option into a practical tool for fleets.

The first step is to unlock viability at the depot level. Fleet operators cannot commit to hydrogen vehicles without guaranteed access to fuel, yet the costs of installing on-site storage and trailerfilling infrastructure remain prohibitive.

One immediate fix would be to expand support within the Hydrogen Allocation Round (HAR) programme to include this infrastructure as standard, rather than leaving it to competitive bids. The rules should also be adjusted to allow third-party intermediaries to supply transport users, rather than tying the production solely to directly connected industrial customers.

Equally important is ensuring that hydrogen produced under HAR can reach the transport sector at a competitive price. At present, some contract mechanisms require producers to repay profits if they sell hydrogen for more than a set benchmark – a structure that inadvertently discourages sales into highervalue transport markets. Removing these disincentives would help make hydrogen fuel commercially viable in its early years.

Regulatory flexibility could also go a long way. Relaxing the Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation (RTFO) an alternative route for early-stage support, rules on additionality and real-time matching would give producers more scope to develop low-carbon hydrogen pathways without excessive administrative hurdles.

Beyond funding and regulation, strategic direction is also key. This includes having a clear national plan for hydrogen refuelling, with targets for public stations along major freight corridors (similar to the directive across the EU) and support for back-tobase hubs within 100 miles of hydrogen production sites. Local and regional authorities, too, could be encouraged and funded to develop hydrogen clusters that align with their economic and industrial strengths.

Ultimately, early-stage deployment support will be crucial. For operators to invest, hydrogen must be cost-competitive with diesel, at least during the transition period.

Achieving that would not require massive subsidies, just enough to bridge the gap while infrastructure and scale catch up.

Hydrogen may not be the answer for every fleet, but for those that move heavy loads, operate around the clock or can’t afford long charging times, it’s an essential piece of the zero-emission puzzle. With a modest policy push and a coordinated approach, the UK could give hydrogen the foothold it needs and ensure that heavy-duty transport doesn’t remain the last sector left running on fossil fuel. L

Alternative Fuels

for refuelling beyond the limited Zero Emission Road Freight Demonstrator and ZEHID schemes. Even research and development are hampered, because there simply isn’t enough infrastructure to run real-world trials.

Without stations, operators can’t buy vehicles.

Without vehicles, investors can’t justify stations.

For hydrogen to take its place alongside battery-electric as a mainstream zero-emission option, that stalemate will have to break.

Amanda Lyne is chair of the Hydrogen Energy Association and managing director of ULEMCo. FURTHER INFORMATION

www.ukhea.co.uk Amanda Lyne, chair, the Hydrogen Energy Association

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