“Electrifying the fleet: A practical resource for fleet managers” aims to provide fleet managers with a detailed roadmap to successfully electrify their fleet, with step-by-step guidance and insights into overcoming barriers.
Electric Vehicles (EVs) require 25-30% of the energy that a diesel equivalent would need to deliver the same performance – resulting in cost savings for fleet managers.
Future of roads minister Lilian Greenwood said: “Our roads are undergoing a technological revolution, and fleets will play a big part.
“A cleaner greener transport network is a key priority for this government, which is why we have plug-in grants available for vans and trucks and programmes aimed at scaling up zero emission HGVs, to decarbonise road freight. The REA and Energy Saving Trust’s new resource is a great step on our path to net zero.”
What does the guide contain?
A section of the report has been dedicated to the potential savings fleet managers could make through electrification. The guide predicted expected savings around £1,500 annually per light commercial vehicle (LCV) driving 15,000 miles a year if charged at the depot or home. For rigid HGVs, the savings could be approximately £3,500 annually for the same distance.
The report also outlined current UK policy targets. By the end of 2024, 10% of new van sales in the UK must be zero emissions, rising to 58% by 2029, 70% by 2030, and 100% by 2035. For HGVs, all new models sold in the UK must be zero emission by 2040.
To support these targets, the UK government has offered various Plug-in Grants, including up to £2,500 for small vans, £5,000 for large vans, £16,000 for small trucks, and £25,000 for large trucks. The guide suggested that this could help to offset the initial costs of electrification.
The guide also discussed the benefits of smart charging and depot sharing.
Nick Harvey, senior programme manager at EST, said: “Electrifying fleets not only contributes to a more sustainable future but also offers potential financial benefits.
“Our collaboration with the REA on this resource highlights that fleet managers can achieve significant cost savings – up to £1,500 annually per light commercial vehicle and approximately £3,500 per rigid HGV.
“These estimated savings support the economic viability of transitioning to electric vehicles and the efficiency gains that can be realised. We are proud to support this initiative, providing fleet managers with the insights they need to make informed, cost-effective fleet decarbonisation decisions.”
Subscribe for free