Rolec

Lockdown, the growth of EVs – and what you need for the switch to electrification

Charge point manufacturer Rolec discusses the current EV climate and what businesses require for a seamless transition to electrification

During the lockdown, the UK experienced significant environmental benefits as a result of silent streets and fewer vehicles on the road; no congestion, no hazardous gases polluting the air. The benefits were noted worldwide, with people taking to Twitter, Instagram and Facebook to document the beauty of nature and cleaner air.

Meanwhile, the lockdown presented concerning figures for the car manufacturing industry, with car sales declining by 97 per cent, a first since 1946. However, pure electric vehicles experienced a modest drop of 10% while accounting for 32% of all car sales during the period. Increasing demand and desire for driving an electric vehicle during the nation’s lockdown phase was inevitable as the benefit-in-kind (BiK) 0% tax rate for pure electric company cars began in April. Such notable changes to the BiK tax rate explains why Google reported considerable growth in the searches for the terms ‘electric cars 2020,’ ‘electric cars’ and ‘best electric cars’ during the months of lockdown.

Fast forward five months and businesses have adapted to the new normal and resumed their everyday routines. For fleet and company car drivers, things have perhaps changed slightly – electric vehicles are now becoming their vehicle choices to transport them from A to B. Electrification, of course, requires futureproof charging infrastructure, something that Rolec has experienced a significant demand for…

Businesses are seeking viable solutions that allow them to take complete control of their charge point consumption, allowing them to understand real-time cost and carbon savings. Some are looking for ways in which the charging infrastructure can generate additional revenue while allowing visitors to charge conveniently. Premises also require charge points that adhere to the overall electrical and power capacities, therefore a need for electrical load management is pivotal to ensure power is used efficiently to recharge EVs on site.

A combination of both durable charge points and a reliable back office management system is a necessity for workplaces which are witnessing an increase in EV drivers among their employees and/or making the shift to an electric fleet.

Rolec can supply both of these, providing a seamless charging experience for business owners and EV drivers.

• For more on Rolec’s charging solutions, please contact Head of EV Charging, Frankie Mellon: frankie@rolecserv.co.uk