But how do you transition from your existing fleet to one that’s powered by electric? Read on as we outline five simple steps to make the switch…
As with any change for your business, it’s worth considering the practicalities of the switch. Start by assessing your existing fleet and how it’s used.
How many miles do they get through each day? Where do they stop and for how long? And is there a like-for-like electric alternative for each vehicle in your fleet?
The answers to these questions will all help you figure out whether electric vehicles are a viable alternative. If you find that your fleet is used throughout the day then parked at the office overnight, for example, it provides the perfect schedule for overnight charging.
The next step is to look at practicality in terms of cost. You’ll need to work out the total cost of ownership for your potential electric vehicle fleet. As well as the purchase price and the associated costs like charger installation, consider usage and maintenance costs like charging and servicing.
This can then be offset by the cost of your existing non-electric fleet. There will no doubt be savings on fuel – with electric much cheaper than petrol or diesel – and road tax, from which electric vehicles are exempt.
Don’t forget to factor in any incentives you’re eligible for. The Workplace Charging Scheme, for instance, could save you up to £350 for each electric vehicle charging point you install.
You’ll then need to get agreement from stakeholders in your business. As well as investors and management staff, this includes the employees that will be using the vehicles. With a change as big as an electric vehicle fleet, you want to make sure everyone is on the same page.
Outline the total cost of ownership, the environmental and running cost benefits and a brief plan of action. At this point, it’s worth considering how quickly you would want to transition from conventional vehicles to an electric fleet – and get a plan in place which everyone agrees on.
Once the plan is in place, it’s time to install the infrastructure. Electric charging points will allow your electric vehicle fleet to be charged on site whenever required. As mentioned, the Workplace Charging Scheme could save you up to £350 on as many as 40 sockets for your workplace.
Finally, there’s the all-important purchase of the electric vehicles that will make up your fleet. Some important factors to consider include the mileage range and charge time. But as with any vehicle purchase, you’ll also want to read plenty of reviews and see how it performs on the road.
Looking to switch your company’s fleet to electric vehicles? Volta Compliance supplies and installs state-of-the-art electric charging points throughout West Yorkshire to make the transition that bit easier.
With a wealth of experience in electrical installations and OLEV-approval for the Workplace Charging Scheme, we cover all bases to make electric vehicle fleet infrastructure a breeze. Contact us today on [email protected] or 0113 436 0402.
