GreenFleet 138

ISSUe 138

www.greenfleet.net

GreenFleet DRIVING THE SWITCH TO CLEANER FLEETS

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

ACCELERATING TO ZERO EMISSIONS Taking action for an all-electric fleet future

EV CHARGING

ELECTRIC VEHICLE INFRASTRUCTURE STRATEGY

Measures to make public charging user-friendly

PLUS: CV SHOW | PROCUREMENT | ROAD TESTS | RED DIESEL | CARGO BIKES | ITT HUB PREVIEW

ALL-NEW, ALL-ELECTRIC

FROM £22,335* UP TO 199 MILE RANGE † 7” Digital Cluster • Smartphone Cradle • Attention Assist Lane control • Traffic Sign Recognition • Autonomous Emergency Braking Visit FCAFleetHub.co.uk for more information

†

500 Action 93hp Auto model - 115 miles range at £23,780. These figures were obtained after the battery had been fully charged. The New Fiat 500e BEV Hatchback is a battery electric vehicle requiring mains electricity for charging. There is a new test for fuel consumption, CO2 and electric range figures. The electric range shown was achieved using the new test procedure. Figures shown are for comparability purposes. Only compare electric range figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including the starting charge of the battery, accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load.

* Including Government Plug-in Car Grant (PiCG) from FCA UK’s official list price. The price shown is merely an estimate of the final purchase price of the vehicle. This price takes into consideration an estimate of the possible incentive/tax benefit related to the purchase of an electric passenger car by a customer. National and local benefits/ incentives are liable to change, please always check the official websites of the competent authorities. The precise purchase price of the vehicle, including all incentive/tax benefits will be provided by the selected official FCA retailer at the time of the order.

Comment

Accelerating to zero emissions The government has published its Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Strategy, which outlines plans for the UK to reach 300,000 public electric vehicle chargepoints by 2030.

The strategy acknowledges that chargepoints can sometimes be difficult to find, difficult to use and may turn out to be in use or broken when a driver reaches them. It also notes that paying for charging can be unnecessarily complicated.

Follow and interact with us on Twitter:

@GreenFleetNews

The plan therefore includes new legislation to be brought in this summer to improve people’s experience when using public chargepoints. The strategy says it will work with industry to open data so that drivers can access real time information about chargepoints, compare prices, and pay for their charging easily. The plans will also require a 99 per cent reliability rate at rapid chargepoints to give consumers confidence in finding chargepoints that work.

The strategy addresses many of the issues that are hampering electric vehicle adoption. This is welcome news, given the clock is ticking towards the 2030 ban of new diesel and petrol cars and the ultimate aim of being net zero emissions by 2050.

GF

et

nFle

Gree

Visit et fleet.n ws, n e e e gr n t s late for the , road tests s feature terviews and in

This issue of GreenFleet looks at the transition towards a zero emission fleet. There’s information on installing charging infrastructure, advice on dealing with rising energy prices, as well as practical considerations when switching to electric vehicles.

Angela Pisanu, editor

P ONLINE P IN PRINT P MOBILE P FACE-TO-FACE

GreenFleet DRIVING THE SWITCH TO CLEANER FLEETS

GreenFleet® would like to thank the following organisations for their support:

PUBLISHED BY PUBLIC SECTOR INFORMATION LIMITED

226 High Rd, Loughton, Essex IG10 1ET. Tel: 020 8532 0055 Web: www.psi-media.co.uk EDITOR Angela Pisanu PRODUCTION MANAGER/DESIGNER Dan Kanolik PRODUCTION CONTROL Lucy Maynard ADMINISTRATION Amy Hinds WEB PRODUCTION Victoria Casey PUBLISHER George Petrou ACCOUNT MANAGER Kylie Glover

© 2022 Public Sector Information Limited. No part of this publication can be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any other means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise) without the prior written permission of the publisher. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the editorial content the publisher cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. ISSN 2399-4940

GreenFleet is a member of the Independent Press Standards Organisation (which regulates the UK’s magazine and newspaper industry). We abide by the Editors’ Code of Practice and are committed to upholding the highest standards of journalism. If you think that we have not met those standards and want to make a complaint please contact Michael Lyons or Angela Pisanu on 0208 532 0055. If we are unable to resolve your complaint, or if you would like more information about IPSO or the Editors’ Code, contact IPSO on 0300 123 2220 or visit www.ipso.co.uk

Issue 138 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

3

F O R T H E D AY A H E A D

NEW ELECTRIC VAN RANGE PEUGEOT i-Cockpit® - Access zero emission zones

WLTP (1) Combined Fuel Consumption for the PEUGEOT electric van range in MPG (l/100km): Combined N/A. CO₂ emissions (g/km): 0g/km.

(1) The fuel consumption or electric range achieved, and CO₂ produced (where applicable), in real world conditions will depend upon a number of factors including, but not limited to: the accessories fitted (pre and post registration); the starting charge of the battery; variations in weather; driving styles and vehicle load. The PEUGEOT electric van range are battery electric vehicles requiring mains electricity for charging. The WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure) is used to measure fuel consumption, electric range and CO₂ figures. Figures shown are for comparison purposes and should only be compared to the fuel consumption, electric range and CO₂ values of other cars tested to the same technical standard.

Contents

ISSUe 138

CONTENTS GreenFleet 07

14

37 Panel of Experts: Road to Zero

News

Geospatial data project to improve EV infrastructure rollout; BP Pulse to invest £1 billion in UK EV charging infrastructure; and Google launches last mile and routing solutions

11

Road Safety

Rules for all road users have been updated in the Highway Code to improve the safety of people walking, cycling and riding horses, and include, for the first time, rules on safe EV charging. Here’s what you need to know

20

ACCELERATING TO ZERO EMISSIONS 12 EV Infrastructure As well as increasing the amount of public chargers in the UK, the government’s Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Strategy pledges that charging will become easier and cheaper than refuelling a petrol or diesel car through a range of measures, explored in this article

14 Electric Vehicles With some £10.8 billion committed to UK electric vehicle production and gigafactories since 2011 by manufacturers, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders looks back at the decade of electric transition, as well as what needs to happen to accelerate the uptake of zero emission vehicles

19 EV Fleet Management Most fleet managers now realise that they need to begin to transition to EVs and, as with the beginning of any major change, the few first steps can seem daunting. However, breaking the task down into simple actions can make it much easier, writes Paul Hollick, chair of the Association of Fleet Professionals

33

20 EV Charging Knowing your fleet’s daily duty cycles is the first step to installing the right chargepoint infrastructure for electric vehicles, writes Benedict Harrison, Sustainable Energy and Transport Consultant at Cenex

24 Energy The Energy Saving Trust looks at the energy price cap and how it will affect electric vehicle drivers, with advice on how to make charging cheaper and get the most out of a battery

28 EV Procurement

46

Rachel Selwyn-Smith shares practical advice about what to consider before procuring charging infrastructure and how ESPO’s Vehicle Charging Infrastructure 2 framework can help

33 Roundtable

63

The country may have been in lockdown – but many fleets have continued to operate business as usual for the last 24 months and significant progress has been made in the transition to zero emission fleets. Wednesday 2 March marked the first live GreenFleet roundtable of 2022, and it was good to be back face-to-face with fleet managers who are at the forefront of the electric transition

GreenFleet magazine

As interest in electric vehicles grows in the fleet sector, our expert panelists discuss how to get around “charge anxiety”, as well as advice for adopting electric vehicles and charging infrastructure

46 Road Test - First Drive: Volkswagen ID 4 Pro Performance

The ID 4 is the first ‘global’ electric Volkswagen. Expected to play a starring role in VW’s new electric era, Richard Gooding finds it to be a car with spacious appeal

48

RoadTest-Peugeot e-2008GTPremium

Sharing much of its technology with the 2021 GreenFleet Vehicle of the Year, the Peugeot e-2008 adds more practicality to the same efficiency and long range mix, Richard Gooding discovers

COMMerCiAL GreenFleet

51

Sponsored by

News

Amazon unveils fully electric heavy goods vehicles in its UK fleet; Medequip takes on 25 electric Mercedes eSprinters; and Almost £200m to roll out zero emission buses nationwide

55

CV Show Preview

Preparations to welcome thousands of visitors to the 2022 Commercial Vehicle Show are well underway, as the UK’s largest road transport exhibition returns to its Spring-time date

63 Accelerating to Zero Emissions

The government has a goal to end the sale of new diesel trucks by 2040. So how is the HGV industry progressing towards this zero emission goal? And what can freight operators do in the meantime to slash emissions?

67

Plug-in Grants

The government has confirmed that the plug-in van and truck grants will be available for an additional two years, until 2024/25, but will change the eligibility criteria from the spring to focus on heavier vehicles

71 Cargo Bikes

E-cargo bikes are a vital part of decarbonising the last mile of logistics. Recently, the Department for Transport topped up its eCargo Bike Grant Fund following the scheme’s success so far

72

Road Test - Vauxhall Vivaro-e Elite

Winner of the GreenFleet 2021 LCV Manufacturer of the Year award, Vauxhall has completed its family of electric light commercial vehicles. Based on the popular Vivaro, Richard Gooding finds out how the zero-emission Vivaro-e stacks up

75

Red Diesel

From April 1, red diesel and other rebated biofuels will no longer be allowed to be used as they are currently and will only be legal for a small number of industries. We look at the changes and how some industries are urging for a delay to the policy

76

ITT Hub Preview

As the 2030 ban on new sales of pure-ICE vehicles looms ever nearer, fleet operators have more choice than ever for zero-emission vehicle solutions. This May will present an ‘opportunity to sample’ at ITT Hub, 11-12 May, Farnborough International

www.greenfleet.net Issue 138 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

5

News

EV INFRASTRUCTURE

Geospatial data project to improve EV infrastructure rollout

The Geospatial Commission has launched a project to explore how location data can be better utilised to support planning and delivery of electric vehicle charge points by local authorities.

The Geospatial Commission discovery

project includes workshops with 10 local authorities to identify challenges and opportunities for better use of location data in the rollout of EV chargepoint infrastructure.

This project will be undertaken by technical specialists Frazer-Nash Consultancy.

Dr Steve Unger, Commissioner at the Geospatial Commission, said: “Location data will play a key role in planning the UK’s transition to electric vehicles and help make net zero a reality.

Through this project, the Geospatial Commission will understand the challenges faced by local authorities who wish to exploit location data. By working together, we will be able to unlock the potential for data-driven innovation in transport.”

The following local authorities are involved in the project: Oxfordshire County Council; City of York Council; Norfolk County Council; Greater Manchester Combined Authority; West Sussex County Council; Cornwall Council; Kent County Council; Leeds City Council; Wiltshire Council; and Cheshire East Council.

READ MORE https://tinyurl.com/2p8ce9x5

INFRASTRUCTURE

MOBILITY

Tesco EV charging rollout hits 500 store milestone

Siemens introduces automated car rental programme for staff

Tesco’s electric charging network – created with Pod Point and Volkswagen – has expanded to 500 locations nationwide, while usage has surged 300 per cent over the past year.

Free charging sessions on the network increased from 500,000 in April 2021 to more than two million by the end of February.

Since the network was created in 2019, the charging points have provided more than 41 million miles of free electric driving to motorists – the equivalent to travelling from Earth to the moon and back 85 times.

The 500th charging location was opened at the Tesco Extra store in Inverness as the network boosts local infrastructure.

Other areas to have benefitted from improved charging access include Southend-on-Sea, Bolton, Wirral, Walsall and Port Talbot.

As the network only uses renewable energy, this milestone represents a saving of 8,786 tonnes of CO2 compared with travelling the same distance in a typical car with an internal combustion engine. In real

terms, this is almost the equivalent CO2 absorbed by 900,000 trees in a year.

Designed to offer Tesco customers a secure, reliable and accessible way to top up their electric cars, the network of more than 1,000 chargers at 500 Tesco Supermarkets in the UK also now includes 100 rapid chargers.

The network’s 7kW chargers and 22kW chargers are free to use, and its 50kW rapid chargers are available at a competitive rate for customers requiring more than a top-up.

The Tesco Inverness store also benefits from a new public rapid charger.

The network’s growth has specifically targeted areas without rapid charging access, with Tesco stores in Leicester and Maldon also gaining rapid charging points.

This latest milestone means the network is on track to meet its original target of launching charging points at 600 Tesco stores across the UK. READ MORE https://tinyurl.com/msdya7f3

Siemens UK has launched an automated rental programme across all of its business divisions, providing 24/7 access to mobility for more than 15,000 employees through membership of Enterprise Car Club.

This means employees now have access to Enterprise’s 1,400+ on-street vehicles in 200 towns, cities and communities across the UK, in addition to the existing dedicated car club vehicles already located on-site at Siemens UK’s offices in Lincoln, Hull, Aberdeen, Congleton and Manchester.

Enterprise’s on-site car club programme has already helped improve efficiencies by reducing the number of pool cars Siemens UK operates by a third. This new programme enables employees, including those who are now hybrid or remote working, to access low- and zero-emission cars for ‘spot hire’ as and when required across the UK. Those with businesscritical mobility needs are continuing to take vehicles on long-term hire from Enterprise.

A bespoke car club enrolment page for Siemens employees accelerates the account setup process. Employees then use their Siemens credit card to book trips on the Enterprise Car Club app. This tracks every journey through the company’s travel management system and ensures it is compliant with the travel policy. The vehicles are opened with either a smartphone or the Siemens ID card.

Siemens and Enterprise work together to ensure all bookings are for essential trips only, and local Enterprise Rent-A-Car branches can now switch daily rental bookings to car club when a suitable vehicle is available nearby.

READ MORE https://tinyurl.com/mphm5tr

6

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

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

BP Pulse to invest £1 billion in UK EV charging infrastructure BP Pulse has announced plans to invest £1 billion in electric vehicle charging in the UK over the next 10 years, and expects this to support hundreds of new jobs in the UK. The investment will allow BP Pulse to deliver more rapid and ultra-fast chargers in key locations, expand fleet products and services, and launch new home charge digital products and services to enhance the customer experience.

The investment will see BP Pulse triple the number of public charging points in its UK network, and accelerate the roll out of 300kW and 150kW ultra-fast charging points that are able to provide EV drivers up to 100 miles of range with just 10 minutes of charging, depending on the model of electric vehicle.

It also plans to upgrade its current EV charging technology across its public charging network to improve reliability.

Richard Bartlett, senior vice president, bp pulse said: “This £1 billion investment is vital to provide the charging infrastructure the UK

needs. We’re investing to build a world-class network. This investment allows us to deliver more. More high-speed charging in dedicated hubs and on existing fuel and convenience sites. More home charging services. And crucial enhancements to our digital technology that will make charging fast, easy and reliable.”

READ MORE https://tinyurl.com/ydmu3w93

HOME CHARGING

EV installer code to protect consumers as EVHS closes

After the Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme (EVHS) closes on 31 March, the Electric Vehicle Consumer Code for Home Chargepoints (EVCC) can be used to guarantee installers are competent, the Renewable Energy Assurance Limited (REAL) has said.

Currently, the EVHS, administered by The Office for Zero Emission Vehicles, gives eligible electric vehicle (EV) owners grants of up to £350 towards the cost of installing a new home chargepoint. For homeowners to receive this grant money, EVHS also requires that the chargers are installed by authorised, competent installers, which in turn means that they have assurance of certain standards and service.

Once EVHS closes on 31 March most

News

EV INFRASTRUCTURE

homeowners will no longer be eligible for a grant to reduce the cost of their charger installation. The result will be that competent installers carrying out high quality work will be more difficult to identify.

To plug this gap, homeowners looking for high standards of service and guarantees of consumer protection should contact an EVCC member installer.

The service homeowners receive from EVCC member installers includes: a site survey to determine the best location for a new charger; a fair contract, with all the relevant protections; a guarantee that they will not be pressured into a sale; and help from EVCC to resolve any complaints quickly should something go wrong.

Virginia Graham, Chief Executive of Renewable Energy Assurance Limited (REAL) said: “Once EVHS closes to most homeowners on 31 March it will be much more difficult to identify competent installers. But, by choosing an EVCC member to carry out your work, you’ll get peace of mind - because we ensure our members are well-qualified, committed to consumer protection and, should anything go wrong, we are here to help.

“Anyone looking for high standards of service and cast-iron guarantees of consumer protection should contact an EVCC member.”

READ MORE https://tinyurl.com/9s8ds44a

Volvo Trucks to offer electric courtesy car fleet Volvo Trucks has partnered with SWARCO Smart Charging and Clarke EV to install electric vehicle charging infrastructure at 27 of its wholly-owned dealerships in the UK, to support the move to an electric courtesy car fleet.

Clarke EV is installing 180 SWARCO Smart Charging EV charging points, including a mix of AC charging posts and DC charging stations, across the Volvo Truck and Bus Centre North & Scotland and Volvo Truck and Bus Centre South & East dealer networks. The work is expected to be completed by June 2022.

Once installed, customers booking a courtesy car while their truck is being serviced will be given a Renault Zoe electric car, with 130 due to enter service over the coming months.

John Twitchen, Group Truck Purchasing Manager - Indirect Products & Services at Volvo Group, who led the project with Andy Mason, Regional Operations Manager, says: “We are focused on making electromobility easy for our customers, so naturally we wanted to lead by example within our own fleet.

For us, it’s not just about selling electric, but taking the journey ourselves too.

“By working closely with SWARCO Smart Charging and Clarke EV, we have been able to select infrastructure and a software back-office package which will future proof our network and allow us to charge more than just cars. Initially, the focus is on ensuring our courtesy car fleet is 100 per cent electric by June 2022; but the next stage will be looking at electrifying our van fleet too.”

All Renault Zoe cars will be fully charged when they leave the dealership and customers will benefit from access to a rapidly growing charging network across the country, including more than 2,000 SWARCO charging points.

READ MORE https://tinyurl.com/2p927hy7

Issue 138 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

7

News

TELEMATICS

Google launches last mile and routing solutions Google has announced the launch of a last mile fleet solution from Google Maps and a Cloud Fleet Routing API from Google Cloud which will help fleet operators optimise fleet performance.

Cloud Fleet Routing API focuses on the route planning phase of delivery and allows operators to perform advanced fleet-wide optimisation, enabling them to determine the allocation of packages to delivery vans and the sequencing of the delivery tasks.

Natively integrated with Google Maps routes data, Cloud Fleet Routing API can solve simple route planning requests in near-realtime, and scale to the most demanding of workloads. Across this spectrum, customers can specify a variety of constraints, such as time windows, package weights, and vehicle capacities. Cloud Fleet Routing runs on the cleanest cloud in the industry and can help carriers meet sustainability targets by reducing distance traveled, number of delivery vans, and CO2 output from computing.

Maps Platform, which is already used by leading ride-hailing and on-demand delivery operators around the world.

When implemented together, Last Mile Fleet Solution and Cloud Fleet Routing API allows businesses to optimise across every stage of the last-mile delivery journey.

READ MORE https://tinyurl.com/5n9xz2zc

AIR QUALITY

EMERGENCY RESPONSE VEHICLES

Glasgow’s Low Emission Zone to include all vehicles by next year

£16.6 million to decarbonise London Ambulance fleet

Glasgow’s Low Emission Zone will be widened in scope to include all vehicles driving into the city centre from June next year.

Phase 1 of Glasgow’s LEZ was introduced in 2018 and resulted with a much greater proportion of cleaner, low and zero emission buses now travelling through the city centre. Subject to Scottish Ministers approval, Phase 2 of Glasgow’s LEZ will be implemented on 31 May 2022 and enforced from 1 June 2023 following a one-year grace period. Enforcement for zone residents’ vehicles will start from 1 June 2024.

Key entry requirements for Low Emission Zones in Scotland have been set at national level for consistency. In general, diesel engine vehicles registered after September 2015 and petrol engine vehicles registered from 2006 onwards will usually meet the required emissions standards, as will buses, coaches and HGVs registered from January 2013.

Glasgow’s LEZ will apply to all vehicle types, except for motorbikes and mopeds and those vehicle types or uses considered

8

Last Mile Fleet Solution focuses on delivery execution and allows fleet operators to optimise across every stage of the last-mile delivery journey, from ecommerce order to doorstep delivery. The solution also helps businesses create exceptional delivery experiences for consumers and provides drivers the tools they need to perform at their best when completing tasks throughout the day. It builds on the On-demand Rides & Deliveries mobility solution from Google

exempt - this would include emergency vehicles and vehicles for disabled persons, including blue badge holders.

Failing to comply with LEZ requirements will result in a penalty charge. This is set nationally at £60 and is reduced by 50% if paid within 14 days. Where repeat entry by the same vehicle is detected within a 90-day period, this penalty charge rate will double, doubling again on each subsequent entry up to a maximum amount determined by vehicle type.

Complementing the nationally set elements of LEZs in Scotland – the council has determined the design and operation of its own scheme based on local requirements.

Glasgow’s LEZ will operate 24 hours a day – all year round, with the zone covering an area of the city centre bounded by the M8 motorway to the north and west, the River Clyde to the south and Saltmarket/High St to the east.

READ MORE https://tinyurl.com/2p93dsj5

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

London Ambulance Service has secured £16.6m in funding to purchase new greener vehicles, in a move that is expected to make it the NHS trust with the largest electric response fleet in the country.

The investment will be used to purchase 225 new vehicles over the course of a year, including 40 new ambulances that are lighter and produce lower emissions, as well as 42 electric fast response cars and three electric motorcycles.

The latter will make London Ambulance Service the first service to use such electric motorbikes to respond to emergency calls.

The service has also said that the funding will also produce a further 32 electric and hybrid vehicles for London Ambulance Service teams who work ‘behind the scenes’, such as those who deep clean ambulances.

London Ambulance Service has reassured that where it is not possible to use hybrid or electric vehicles, new vehicles will comply with ULEZ, but that the move will ensure that 10 per cent of London Ambulance Service’s 1,000-plus vehicles will be electric or plug-in hybrid electric.

Daniel Elkeles, London Ambulance Service’s chief executive, said: “Soon, we’ll have the largest electric response fleet in the country, which will benefit our staff, volunteers and patients alike.

“Investing in our fleet of emergency vehicles and making sure it is modern, sustainable and resilient is extremely important. As well as being greener and better for the environment, our new vehicles will help us to provide better care for our patients.”

READ MORE https://tinyurl.com/bdd83k2f

News

EV CHARGING

Second hand Jaguar I-PACE batteries form portable charging unit Jaguar Land Rover has partnered with Pramac to develop a portable zeroemission energy storage unit powered by second-life Jaguar I-PACE batteries, which has a capacity of up to 125kWh. Called the Off Grid Battery Energy Storage System (ESS), Pramac’s technology – which features lithium-ion cells from Jaguar I-PACE batteries taken from prototype and engineering test vehicles, supplies zero-emission power where access to the mains supply is limited or unavailable.

The partnership is the first in Jaguar Land Rover’s plans to create new circular economy business models for its vehicle batteries. As part of its commitment to net zero status by 2039, the company will be launching programmes that deliver second life and beyond uses for its electric vehicle batteries.

Pramac directly reuses up to 85% of the vehicle battery supplied by Jaguar Land Rover within the storage unit, including modules and wiring. The remaining materials are recycled back into the supply chain.

Charged from solar panels, the unit is a self-contained solution that consists of a battery system linked to a bi-directional converter and the associated control management systems.

Available for commercial hire, the units are fitted with Type 2 Electric Vehicle (EV) charge connections with dynamic control and rated at up to 22kW AC to allow electric vehicle charging.

To showcase its capability, the unit helped Jaguar TCS Racing prepare for the 2022 ABB FIA Formula E World Championship during testing in the UK and Spain, where it was used to run the team’s cutting-edge diagnostic equipment analysing the race cars’ track performance, and to supply auxiliary power to the Jaguar pit garage.

An Off Grid Battery ESS will also be deployed at Jaguar Land Rover Experience Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa – the world’s biggest – to help the site cope with inconsistent power delivery from the mains.

READ MORE https://tinyurl.com/bdew7tuy

MOBILITY

BP develops fuel and charge card for small business fleets BP has launched a new, bespoke offer to help small businesses electrify their fleets.

BP’s new solution has been developed specifically for businesses with one to 10 vehicles, helping small fleets on their journey to a sustainable future.

The solution is delivered through the SME Fuel and Charge card and provides access to more than 8,500 bp pulse public charging points and more than 3,400 fuel stations (including its 1,200 branded bp sites and card acceptance partner sites: Esso, Gulf and Texaco).

The solution provides cost effective all-in-one solution for both fuelling and charging,

as well as simple carbon offsetting solutions through bp Target Neutral, which purchases and retires carbon credits from a portfolio of projects around the world.

It also gives access to bp’s 24/7 online portal, which helps effectively control fuel card use with downloadable user invoices, and a digital app (BPme) for cashless payments and tracking virtual transactions, which includes a loyalty programme, BPme Rewards, to redeem points earn through fuel and shop purchases

Zemo Partnership’s Andy Eastlake

“More” is not always “Right” As if the energy markets weren’t turbulent enough, now we have a major war and a new imperative to transition as fast as possible from imported fossil energy. Fortunately the solution to this new, immediate problem is well aligned to the longer term imperative to move to low – and ultimately zero – carbon energy.

But as we at Zemo publish our collaborative work from the EV Energy Taskforce (EVET) on how to deliver a charging infrastructure for the 2035 phase out of ICE cars and vans (jointly with the Energy Systems Catapult, Government and 350 stakeholders) we have been surrounded by calls for more charge points, more grid investment, more energy, more data and more communication.

Of course we need more of all these things, plus importantly, of the vehicles to buy, since accelerating the electric transition in transport is one of the most important ways we can tackle these existential challenges.

But, just putting more vehicles on the road (or in parking spots!), or more battery into every car without thinking about how they are best and most effectively used and what they should replace, is not the answer any more than is just putting in chargepoints liberally wherever we can.

For a successful and optimum future transport system, we need the right infrastructure in the right place, with the right utilisation by the right vehicles, to deliver the electric transition The Taskforce’s new report launched on 31 March, projects that if we’re to meet the objectives set out in the Sixth Carbon Budget, by 2035 electricity demand from the transport sector will rise to 55 TWh per year, making up 14 per cent of total UK demand and equivalent to the electricity now consumed by 18 million homes.

This is clearly a major structural change; we need to make sure it happens, of course, but we also need to make sure it happens in a way that maximises efficiencies across the whole system. By 2035, for example, we’re going to have much more intermittent, renewable energy.

We can reduce the number of wind turbines, solar panels and other renewable sources that we’ll need to install if we charge in a ‘smart’ way – taking in electricity when it’s abundant and, ideally, using the large battery storage capacity of our full fleet of EVs to supply electricity for other uses when it’s short.

Of course, we need to optimise our future energy system incorporating electric transport but we also need to make sure we make this transition happen as fast as possible. In order to do this, we need to take people, vehicle drivers, along with us.

Modelling work by the EV Energy Taskforce, published in its latest report, identifies the number of public chargepoints (or, rather, a range of numbers) that will be required to meet user needs. The number – just short of 500,000 (in the central case) – is based on the presupposition that we install the right kinds of chargers in the right places.

A significant number of public chargers will be required by both private and fleet drivers without their own off-street parking. The Taskforce anticipates that their charging needs will be primarily met through a combination of on-street charging and local rapid-charging hubs. For all drivers, including those who mainly charge at home a network of rapid (and ultra-rapid) chargers is already developing fast on our motorways and major road networks. By 2035 the Taskforce projects that 60,000 en route rapid chargepoints will be needed along the strategic road network, more than 10 times the number in place today.

Developing this infrastructure in the right way (ahead of when it’s needed, so we can retain consumer confidence) is now the major challenge for the electric transition in road transport. The Taskforce’s report provides a good blueprint for the route ahead with the actions needed to get there, and the members are committed to supporting everyone on their journey to an electric dream in the ‘right’ way.

FURTHER INFORMATION

READ MORE

www.zemo.org.uk

https://tinyurl.com/yc6y29te

Issue 138 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

9

The AA’s latest yellow paper examines the post pandemic customer

The AA’s business services division has launched its latest yellow paper ‘Customer Experience and Innovation: the new world order’, exploring the current customer experience and innovation landscape.

Bringing together useful advice on managing customer touchpoints and measuring satisfaction levels, the AA’s latest yellow paper addresses how customer expectations have evolved. It’s evident that the pandemic has fuelled the rise in digital platforms in both the business-to-business and business-toconsumer markets. Due to convenience, digital platforms have delivered significant change and innovation to the entire customer journey.

As the AA constantly reviews and adapts it business to meet its customers’ changing needs, it’s evident that there are significant evolutions happening alongside planned changes in the automotive sector. With the government’s date for zero emissions set for 2030 – the date when new petrol and diesel cars will be banned – there’s less than a decade for the automotive industry, businesses, and drivers to adapt to the opportunity which 2030 brings.

This yellow paper explores some of the key factors for change and shines a light on some exciting developments coming up and their impact on businesses.

Gavin Franks, director of AA Business Services, comments: “We’ve all witnessed a rapid evolution of customer expectations as society has shifted with the impact of the pandemic and the automotive industry is no exception. Innovation is going to continue to be critical for businesses moving forward and for us all to reach our net zero goals. We have seen this with the introduction

of our award-winning Freewheeling Hub, a game-changing addition to our Multi-Fit Wheel kit so Patrols can safely tow vehicles, such as EVs and 4x4s, which normally can’t be towed on two wheels. It’s making a real difference to the breakdown process for drivers.

“The customer experience is going to change the pace of our journey to 2030 and we’re with you to meet the needs of drivers every step of the way.

It’s exciting, as well as daunting for many, and that’s why partnerships and close collaboration within the industry is more important than ever.”

To download the ‘Customer Experience and Innovation: the new world order’ yellow paper, visit: https://bit.ly/3tTUOSm. To find out more about the AA’s Business Services, please visit us below. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.linkedin.com/showcase/ the-aa-business-services/

The AA looks ahead with customer experience front and centre Looking ahead to the target of being net zero by 2030, customer experience and innovation are going to be key themes for the business sector – as they will be across the wider business landscape. Here Gavin Franks, business services director at the AA, discusses his thoughts on how this will impact businesses and the opportunities ahead.

“Customer experience and innovation are two areas where we’ve seen some of the most significant examples of opportunity reshaping the landscape. When the pandemic hit, many businesses adapted quickly to survive and we saw them thrive. These adaptations came about from the changes in society, which ultimately impacted consumer expectations.

“Central to this changing landscape is the acceleration of online retailing.

The Ofcom report ‘Online Nation 2021’ revealed how the pandemic has sped up the digital shift. Over the past couple of years, UK adults spent an average of three hours and 47 minutes online every day, with online shopping sales rising 48 per cent to £113bn. While understandably our reliance on online shopping went up while we couldn’t leave home, it ultimately shifted consumer expectations

10

and when lockdown lifted, many changes in attitudes and behaviour are here to stay.

“We’re seeing a change in consumer demand for more convenience, control and the availability of goods and services at times and locations that suit. For fleets, drivers are expecting the same. We know businesses are feeling this, as our research report ‘New Horizons’, revealed that there’s a clear trend for personalisation of experiences and flexibility, such as home delivery and one point of contact. We found that 85 per cent expect a service which is tailored to their organisation’s own needs and 83 per cent expect a service that matches the agility and flexibility than an individual consumer would expect.

“With less than a decade for businesses to prepare for the government’s date for net zero emissions, we’re also working to help make the transition as easy as possible for organisations and their drivers. The driver experience is central to this and today we work with seven providers, assisting more than 7,000 charge posts though our support service.

“It’s only through better understanding of evolving customer expectations that we’ll continue to meet high customer and driver

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

satisfaction levels and innovation is critical to this. With hopefully a more settled period ahead, 2022 is going to offer further opportunities for businesses and fleets to adapt, evolve and enhance their operations for the future and the AA is no exception. With customers at our heart, we’re at the forefront of support for the transition to a greener, brighter future.” L FURTHER INFORMATION www.linkedin.com/showcase/ the-aa-business-services/

Gavin Franks, director of business services at the AA

Rules for all road users have been updated in the Highway Code to improve the safety of people walking, cycling and riding horses, and include, for the first time, rules on safe EV charging.

Here’s what you need to know Following a public consultation, the Highway Code has been updated to improve road safety for people walking, cycling and riding horses.

In total, 10 sections have been updated, with 50 rules being added or updated.

A parallel crossing is similar to a zebra crossing, but includes a cycle route alongside the black and white stripes.

Walking, cycling or riding in shared spaces There is new guidance in the code about Hierarchy of road users routes and spaces which are shared by The introduction section of The Highway Code people walking, cycling and riding horses. has been updated to include People cycling, riding a horse or new rules about the new driving a horse-drawn vehicle should ‘hierarchy of road users’. respect the safety of people Peop The hierarchy places walking in these spaces, but should le those road users most people walking should also p a r close to k at risk in the event of take care not to obstruct the charge a collision at the top or endanger them. avoid c point and of the hierarchy. It People cycling are asked reating does not remove the to not pass people walking, hazard a need for everyone to riding a horse or driving for peo trip ple behave responsibly. a horse-drawn vehicle walking It’s important that closely or at high speed, trailing from all road users are particularly from behind. They cables aware of The Highway are asked to slow down when Code, are considerate necessary and let people walking to other road users, and know they are there (for example, understand their responsibility by ringing their bell). They are also asked for the safety of others. to remember that people walking may be deaf, blind or partially sighted. Cyclists are also People crossing the asked not to pass a horse on the horse’s left. road at junctions The updated code clarifies that when Positioning in the people are crossing or waiting to cross at road when cycling a junction, other traffic should give way.

There is updated guidance for people cycling If people have started crossing and traffic about positioning themselves which includes wants to turn into the road, the people crossing riding in the centre of their lane on quiet have priority and the traffic should give way. roads, in slower-moving traffic and at the People driving, riding a motorcycle approach to junctions or road narrowings. or cycling must give way to people on Cyclists are also asked to keep at least a zebra crossing and people walking 0.5 metres (just over 1.5 feet) away from and cycling on a parallel crossing. the kerb edge (and further where it is

Road Safety

Changes to the Highway Code

safer) when riding on busy roads with vehicles moving faster than them.

The updated code explains that people cycling in groups should be considerate of the needs of other road users when riding in groups.

Groups of cyclists can ride two abreast - and it can be safer to do so, particularly in larger groups or when accompanying children or less experienced riders.

People cycling are asked to be aware of people driving behind them and allow them to overtake (for example, by moving into single file or stopping) when it’s safe to do so.

The updated code explains that people cycling should take care when passing parked vehicles, leaving enough room (a door’s width or 1 metre) to avoid being hit if a car door is opened. They are also asked to watch out for people walking into their path.

Overtaking when driving or cycling You may cross a double-white line if necessary, provided the road is clear, to overtake someone cycling or riding a horse if they are travelling at 10 mph or less (Rule 129).

There is updated guidance on safe passing distances and speeds for people driving or riding a motorcycle when overtaking vulnerable road users, including leaving at least 1.5 metres (5 feet) when overtaking people cycling at speeds of up to 30mph, and giving them more space when overtaking at higher speeds.

Passing people riding horses or driving horse-drawn vehicles should be done at speeds under 10 mph and allowing at least two metres (6.5 feet) of space.

At least two metres (6.5 feet) of space should be allowed when passing people walking in the road (for example, where there’s no pavement), and this should be done at a low speed. Drivers should wait behind them and do not overtake if it’s unsafe or not possible to meet these clearances.

People cycling passing slowermoving or stationary traffic The updated code confirms that people cycling may pass slower-moving or stationary traffic on their right or left.

They should proceed with caution as people driving may not be able to see them. This is particularly important on the approach to junctions and when deciding whether it is safe to pass lorries or other large vehicles.

Using an electric vehicle charge point For the first time, the code includes guidance about using electric vehicle charging points.

When using one, people should park close to the charge point and avoid creating a trip hazard for people walking from trailing cables.

They should also display a warning sign if they can, and return charging cables and connectors neatly to minimise the danger to other people and avoid creating an obstacle for other road users. L FURTHER INFORMATION See all the changes to the Highway Code here: www.gov.uk/guidance/ the-highway-code/updates

Issue 138 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

11

Accelerating to Zero Emissions

INFRASTRUCTURE

The Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Strategy

These plans will also require a 99 per cent reliability rate at rapid chargepoints to give consumers confidence in finding chargepoints that work wherever they travel.

There will also be work to improve accessibility at public chargepoints for disabled users. The government will work in partnership with Motability and have commissioned the British Standards Institute (BSI) to develop accessible charging standards. These standards will provide guidance to industry and allow drivers to easily identify which chargepoints are suitable for their needs.

Industry reaction As well as increasing the amount of public chargers in the UK, the The strategy begins to remove some of the constraints to continued future growth government’s Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Strategy pledges that of the EV charging network, believes charging will become easier and cheaper than refuelling a petrol Jamie Hamilton, automotive director and head of electric vehicles at Deloitte. He or diesel car. We explore the measures outlined in the strategy said: “The Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Strategy adds important momentum to the journey towards an all-electric future and race to net zero. The commitment of The government has published its future generations by the end of this reaching 300,000 public chargepoints by £1.6 billion-backed Electric Vehicle decade, revolutionising our charging 2030 will help alleviate anxiety amongst Infrastructure Strategy, which outlines network and putting the consumer first.” the one in three UK households who don’t plans for the UK to reach 300,000 public have off-street parking, making access electric vehicle chargepoints by 2030.

Local charging to EVs more equitable in the future.

It acknowledges that chargepoints can £500 million will be invested to bring “With car manufacturers and sometimes be difficult to find, difficult to competitively priced public others within the private sector use and may turn out to be in use or broken chargepoints to communities also making significant when a driver reaches them. Even paying for across the UK. This The commitments to electric charging can be unnecessarily complicated. includes a £450 million a im is mobility, this strategy The strategy therefore includes pledges Local Electric Vehicle to expa begins to remove some that charging will become easier and Infrastructure (LEVI) n d the net of the constraints cheaper than refuelling a petrol or diesel fund, which will boost that it c work so to continued car, while new legal requirements on projects such as EV o v future growth.” operators will see drivers of EVs able to pay hubs and innovative e r s entire c the Jacob Roberts, Transport by contactless, compare charging prices on-street charging. o u n try, as well as Policy Manager at and find nearby chargepoints via apps.

A pilot scheme for im the Association for The new strategy sets out the government’s the LEVI fund will the con proving Renewable Energy aim to expand the UK’s charging network, see local authorities sumer experie and Clean Technology so that it covers the entire country – as well bid for a share of nce (REA), believes that the as improving the consumer experience at all £10 million in funding, government’s ambitions can chargepoints, with significant support focused allowing selected areas be achieved, but that investment on those without access to off-street parking, to work with industry and needs to be mobilised at pace. He said: “The and on fast charging for longer journeys. boost public charging opportunities.

REA strongly supports the Government’s It will bring in new legislation in summer The LEVI funding includes up to £50 commitment to delivering a world-leading 2022 to improve people’s experience when million to fund staff to work on local EV charging infrastructure network that using public chargepoints. The regulations will challenges and public chargepoint meets the needs of all EV users. By 2030, the be overseen and monitored by a public body. planning – ensuring that any development Government expect around 300,000 public The government says it will work with complements all other zero emission forms chargepoints will be needed to enable the industry to open data so that drivers of travel, such as walking and cycling. transition to EVs – and we believe that this can access real time information about Meanwhile, the existing £950 million can be achieved, with this rapidly expanding chargepoints across the public network, rely Rapid Charging Fund will support industry having delivered 37 per cent growth on the public charging network, compare the rollout of at least 6,000 high in chargepoint numbers in the last year alone. prices and can pay for their charging easily, powered super-fast chargepoints across “This growth can only be maintained, whoever the chargepoint provider.

England’s motorways by 2035. however, if investment can be mobilised at It will also mandate reliability standards The government also pledges to pace. We welcome the Government providing to ensure consumers have confidence continue addressing any barriers to funding to overcome market failures and wherever they travel in the UK. The private sector rollout of chargepoints, speed up local rollout of EV chargepoints, government will also support fleets by such as local councils delaying planning whilst allowing room for continued private introducing payment roaming across permission and high connection costs. investment to grow the UK’s public EV the public chargepoint network. charging network. The Government’s next Launching the strategy, Transport Making charging easier step should now be to remove the practical Secretary Grant Shapps said: “No matter The government is mandating that operators and administrative barriers which too where you live – be that a city centre provide real-time data about chargepoints. often delay new chargepoint projects.” or rural village, the north, south, east or This will ensure that consumers can Regarding the consumer regulations, west of the country – we’re powering compare prices and seamlessly pay for Jacob Robers said: “These regulations set up the switch to electric and ensuring their charging using contactless cards. the standards operators are expected to no one gets left behind in the process.

They will also be able to use apps to find meet and will improve the overall charging “We’re ensuring the country is EV-fit for their nearest available chargepoint.

12

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

Increase in scale and urgency Chris Pateman-Jones, CEO of Connected Kerb believes that the strategy sends a clear signal that the rollout of EV charging needs to increase in scale and urgency – and that all corners of the country is covered by a charging network. He said: “Now, the work is on for the industry to ramp up the deployment of chargers in towns, villages, cities and across motorway networks, to ensure that no one gets left behind in the EV transition and that all drivers are supported with convenient, reliable and affordable charging solutions.”

“For on-street charging, councils are in a unique position to facilitate the mass rollout of EV chargers to support their residents without access to off-street parking. By partnering with independent charge point operators, councils can unlock the private investment needed to accelerate the deployment of chargers at the scale required to meet the UK’s charging needs.”

Fiona Howarth, CEO of Octopus Electric Vehicles, is pleased to see a range of chargers included in the strategy. She commented: “It’s great to see support for a broad range of reliable charging - from high speed convenient rapids for topping up on longer journeys; to affordable local charging for regular use.

“The reality is that most people won’t use rapid chargers often - alternatively using home, workplace, kerbside and community charging that cost as little as £5 to fill up, instead of up to £40 at a rapid. But having an increasing base of reliable rapid chargers will continue to build confidence and encourage more people to make the switch to clean, green driving.”

Ian Johnston, the CEO of Osprey Charging is pleased the strategy will look at providing critical infrastructure to the areas that are as yet underserved. He said: “This announcement by the government is an important step towards ensuring that we have the right number of charging points in all locations across the UK. This Supported by

is crucial to give everyone the confidence that when they make the switch to electric, they will be able to charge as easily as they refuel today - whenever and wherever they are. These charging stations simply must be reliable, easy to navigate and importantly, accessible for all.

“There are already many billions of pounds of private investment committed for the deployment of charging infrastructure across the UK from networks like Osprey, and the announcements today will allow this funding to provide the critical infrastructure to the areas that are as yet underserved – notably the motorway service areas and the Local Authority towns and cities across the nation. We look forward to working with the government to help bring this strategy to life, delivering a high quality, inclusive, open-access and reliable charging network that’s worry free, comfortable and enjoyable to use.”

Location data The Geospatial Commission has launched a project to explore how location data can be better utilised to support planning and delivery of electric vehicle charge points by local authorities.

The Geospatial Commission discovery project includes workshops with 10 local authorities to identify challenges and opportunities for better use of location data in the rollout of EV chargepoint infrastructure. This project will be undertaken by technical specialists Frazer-Nash Consultancy.

Dr Steve Unger, Commissioner at the Geospatial Commission, said: “Location data will play a key role in planning the UK’s transition to electric vehicles and help make net zero a reality. Through this project, the Geospatial Commission will understand the challenges faced by local authorities who wish to exploit location data. By working together, we will be able to unlock the potential for data-driven innovation in transport.”

The following local authorities are involved in the project: Oxfordshire County Council; City of York Council; Norfolk County Council; Greater Manchester Combined Authority; West Sussex County Council; Cornwall Council; Kent County Council; Leeds City Council; Wiltshire Council; and Cheshire East Council. L

Accelerating to Zero Emissions

experience. We are particularly pleased that the regulations include requirements for interoperability and roaming – something the REA has long argued for.”

Toddington Harper, CEO of GRIDSERVE, said: “This decade is critical for the UK’s electric vehicle transition. With the 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel vehicles quickly emerging, we must ensure that we have the charging infrastructure in place to support current and future electric vehicle drivers.

“We welcome the Government’s commitments to expanding the UK’s charging network, and it’s crucial these commitments are met with action. The race is now on for the industry to accelerate the deployment of chargers across the country, giving drivers in all corners of the UK access to dependable charging, and in turn, complete confidence to make the switch to electric vehicles.”

FURTHER INFORMATION Read the strategy here: tinyurl.com/bddmr9ka

13

Accelerating to Zero Emissions

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

The electric decade With some £10.8 billion committed to UK electric vehicle production and gigafactories since 2011 by manufacturers, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders looks back at the decade of electric transition, as well as what needs to happen to accelerate the uptake of zero emission vehicles

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and produces electric vans, buses and trucks, Traders (SMMT) has revealed that some £10.8 as established manufacturers and new billion has been dedicated to UK electric entrants have invested in production. vehicle production and gigafactories since 2011, with billions more invested globally Looking back to bring new technology to market.

Ten years ago, six models of electric car The SMMT say this figure could be even were available, accounting for less than higher, given the figure accounts purely for one in 1,000 new car registrations. There public announcements by vehicle and battery are now more than 140 models on the manufacturers, and does not include market, with electric vehicles wider supply chain investment. comprising more than one in In Britain’s first ‘electric six new cars and one in 28 Ten decade’, kicked off by a vans registered. years a g o £420 million investment Just one in 80 cars , s i x mode in Sunderland for on the road, however, l s of electric the UK’s first massruns on electricity, c a r were availab produced battery with the UK aiming le, electric car, more for one in three by for less accounting than 10 vehicle 2030 if net zero t h in 1,00 an one manufacturers ambitions are to be 0 n have invested in met. The challenges are registra ew car communities across the examined in Plugging tions country to create jobs the Gap, SMMT’s updated and to design, engineer and blueprint for delivering the build the cleanest, greenest zero emission transition. vehicles for domestic and export Private motorists accounted for markets. Alongside cars, the UK also just a third of new plug-in registrations in

2021, with uptake far higher among businesses and fleets, which benefit from generous fiscal incentives. Conversely, purchase incentives have been rolled back dramatically over the past year, with the UK’s EV adoption now falling behind some European markets which offer more attractive incentive packages.

Growing the infrastructure Further growth in this market, however, depends as much on chargepoint provision as affordability. Research by SMMT reveals that the ratio of public standard chargers to electric vehicles has rapidly deteriorated, with just one charger for every 32 plug-ins across the UK compared with one for every 16 just 12 months ago, and significant regional variations.

The industry is calling on all parties integral to the drive to zero, including chargepoint operators and government, to help ‘plug the gap’ between infrastructure rollout and uptake.

SMMT has advocated a nationally coordinated, locally delivered infrastructure plan, with binding targets for chargepoints that match those imposed on vehicle manufacturers. Overseen by a regulator,

On display at SMMT Electrified 2022 at the QEII, London – Five electric vehicles from the UK’s line up of more than 15 models, featuring cars, taxis, vans, trucks and buses, built in Britain and exported globally.

14

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

such a plan would put consumers at the heart of the transition, accelerating chargepoint provision and addressing charging anxiety among drivers and businesses. It would also help the one in three households that do not have off-street parking and would therefore be reliant on public charging, to make the switch.

Furthermore, a vibrant, well-supported market would help attract greater industrial investment, creating jobs and supporting economic growth. Gigafactory investment is essential if the UK is to achieve the 60GWh capacity it needs by 2030, a capability that would support the production of around one million electric vehicles a year.

This, in turn, would enable the industry to exploit the benefits of the UK’s ambitious trade agenda, maximising locally originating content to achieve tariff-free exports to key growth markets worldwide, and help Britain to realise a zero-emission future with greater resilience and selfsufficiency in battery production and the wider electrified supply chain.

While overall UK gigafactory capacity is currently just 2GWh, the £10.8 billion figure includes major battery production commitments that will come online in the coming years, estimated to take UK capability to around 41GWh by 2027. The EU, meanwhile, is forecast to have a capacity of up to 1.5TWh by 2040, with more than 25 gigafactories either under construction or in development.

For the UK to become a location of choice for potential investors, therefore, government must create the right conditions, with a streamlined process for obtaining the necessary permits and licences, easy access to skilled and productive labour, and competitively priced clean energy.

Meeting the challenge Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “The UK automotive industry has set out its intent – to meet the challenge of net zero – and has backed that ambition with cash, investing massively during Britain’s first electric decade. As we enter the second, the stakes are higher, with some of the world’s toughest regulation coming, regulation that will seek to determine the pace of change in a market constantly buffeted by headwinds. But mandates on manufacturers alone will not drive the market. Delivering net zero needs a competitive industry and a competitive market. We need a holistic strategy with binding targets on chargepoint provision, attractive fiscal and purchase incentives, and a reliable, accessible and affordable user experience.

We need a universal right to charge electric vehicles, for all drivers, wherever they live, wherever they travel and whatever their needs.”

Fiat Fleet & Business provides a ‘one-stop-shop’ for fleet operators of any size Fiat Fleet & Business is dedicated to providing bespoke solutions for your business, no matter the size. It offers a multi-brand approach which incorporates the Fiat and Fiat Professional van range. This is coupled with finance and insurance products from Stellantis, a national aftersales support network powered

by MOPAR and Found used car programme, offering an all-encompassing and cost-effective fleet solution.

Fiat Fleet & Business provide a ‘one-stop-shop’ for fleets of any size in terms of product, with a diverse portfolio of cars including the fully-electric New 500 and 500 Hybrid, 500X, Panda and Tipo.

Meanwhile, LCV drivers can access the New Ducato and its EV counterpart, the E-Ducato, as well as Scudo, Doblò and Fiorino Van, all of which come with a host of configurations which can meet the needs of all professional operators, from freight fleets and construction companies to artisans and urban service providers.

The recent announcement of the new 500X Hybrid and Tipo Hybrid completes the electrification of the entire Fiat line-up.

The brand’s electrification journey began in 2020 with the 500 Hybrid and Panda Hybrid, followed swiftly by the multi-award winning, fully-electric New 500. Since its launch, New 500 has scooped 26 awards including City Car of the Year (GQ and Auto Express) and Best Small Electric Car for the City (What Car?). Fiat now offers at least one low-emissions version for each model.

The electrified nature of the range allows Fiat Fleet & Business to provide all fleet and business customers with a sustainable mobility solution, whatever their mobility needs, with simple technology and at an affordable price.

For more information about the Fiat Fleet and Business offering please contact our business centre on 08081 687152 L

Accelerating to Zero Emissions

SPONSOR’S COMMENT

FURTHER INFORMATION www.fiat.co.uk

EV Infrastructure Strategy The government has recently published its Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Strategy, where it outlines support and measures that will make it easier and cheaper to recharge and EV than refuelling a petrol or diesel car.

It includes new legal requirements on operators will see drivers of EVs able to pay by contactless, compare charging prices and find nearby chargepoints via apps.

Commenting on the strategy, Mike Hawes said: “Government has rightly recognised that Britain’s electric mobility revolution must put the needs of the consumer at the heart of the transition. Consumers already have certainty about the vehicles, with ever-increasing choice, thanks to billions of pounds of manufacturer investment, but charging infrastructure must keep pace with the rapid growth of sales of these cars.

“The EV infrastructure strategy points in the right direction, addressing problems with the current customer charging experience and setting out a nationally co-ordinated, locally delivered plan which aims to ‘build ahead of need’. The UK already has an enviable and ever-growing rapid charging network, so focus must be given to expanding public on-street and destination charging provision.

“Every stakeholder will have to play their part in this transition but, if industry and consumers are to have the certainty they need to invest, commensurate and binding targets must be set for infrastructure provision. Deployed nationally and at pace, this expansion would give drivers confidence they will be able to charge as easily as they would refuel, wherever they are.” L FURTHER INFORMATION Read the SMMT’s ‘Plugging the Gap’ report here: tinyurl.com/2p93xbzz Supported by

Laurence Hagger, Fiat Fleet Director

15

ALL ELECTRIC FIAT 500 AND HYBRID RANGE

BIK from 29% CO2 from 129g/km MPG up to 44.1-49.5* P11D from £27,350

BIK from 1% P11D from £23,780

BIK from 27% CO2 119g/km MPG up to 53.3* P11D £23,360

For further information, please visit www.fiat.co.uk, contact your retailer or visit the Fiat Fleet Hub at www.fcafleethub.co.uk Models shown: Models shown: 500X 1.5 Hybrid 48V Sport 130hp eDCT, P11D £28,810. Tipo Cross 1.5 Hybrid 48V 130hp eDCT, P11D £23,360 and 500 La Prima Electric 42kW 118hp Auto, P11D £30,780.

†

*Fuel consumption figures for Fiat Tipo hybrid in mpg (l/100km): Combined 53.3 ( 5.3 ). CO2 emissions 119g/km. Fuel consumption figures for Fiat 500x hybrid in mpg (l/100km): Combined 44.1 (6.4) – 49.5 (5.7). CO2 emissions 129 - 145g/km.

Fuel economy and CO2 results for the All-Electric 500 (87kW). Mpg (l/100km): Not applicable. CO2 emissions: 0 g/km. Electric range: 199 miles. These figures were obtained after the battery had been fully charged. The All-Electric 500 (87kW) is a battery electric vehicle requiring mains electricity for charging.

Fuel consumption and CO2 figures are provided for comparative purposes only and may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including the accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load.

Only compare fuel consumption and CO2 figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedure.

Fiat has completed the electrification of its line-up, following the recent launch of the 500X Hybrid and Tipo Hybrid – taking an important step towards sustainable mobility for all

Advertisement Feature

A spotlight on Fiat’s electrified range

lettering. These two design cues make the 500X even more contemporary and mirror the branding look and feel of the New 500.

Meanwhile, Tipo Hybrid is available in three trim levels; Tipo, City Life, and Cross.

The Tipo Cross Hybrid comes with generous standard features including heated front seats, keyless entry and go and blind spot assist.

As well as the hybrid version, the Tipo range is also available with a 100hp 1.0 T3 petrol engine.

The 500X Hybrid and Tipo Hybrid also lead their respective segments for their optional Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), to make them easier to drive and prevent potential hazards. The main safety features include Attention Assist, which detects the early sign of driver fatigue in the vehicle’s sideways movements, Autonomous Emergency Braking and Intelligent Speed Assist.

Fiat has completed the electrification of its line-up, following the recent launch of the 500X Hybrid and Tipo Hybrid – taking an important step towards sustainable mobility for all. The brand’s electrification journey began with the 500 Hybrid and Panda Hybrid in 2020, before launching its first fully-electric car, the New 500, which arrived in the UK in 2021.

New Fiat 500 The multi-award winning, New Fiat 500, is the first fully-electric Fiat designed from the ground up. The car provides a raft of best-inclass features such as level two autonomous driving technologies, making it the only car in its segment to do so. New 500 is also available in multiple trim levels, from the entry level Action to the range topping La Prima. In the middle sits the New 500 Icon which along with the La Prima is available as both a hatchback and convertible. New 500 is also available with two battery options, a 24kWh battery on the Action trim and a 42kWh battery on the Icon and La Prima trim.

Respectively, the batteries have a driving range of 118 miles and 199 miles (WLTP).

New 500 also boasts 85kW fast charging, enabling the battery to reach 80 per cent charge in just 35 minutes. Even more impressively, with a rapid charger, New 500 can achieve 30 miles of range in around five minutes, ensuring that all fleet and business customers stay on the move.

If this wasn’t enough, the New 500 also comes with an entirely new infotainment system with a crisp 10.25-inch display,

available on the mid-level Icon trim upwards.

The system offers an intuitive, easy-to-use customisable interface, in which the driver can arrange the screen-layout according to their personal preference. The new Cinerama Infotainment comes equipped with a fully integrated navigation platform, which will become your driving partner to wherever your journey takes you.

Despite the remarkably high specification and quality improvements on the New 500, hatchback and convertible prices start from a P11D of £23,780 and £29,930, respectively.

Even more crucially, thanks to the fully-electric nature of the car, company car drivers can currently benefit from one per cent BIK tax.

Strengthening the New 500’s credentials, it is also congestion charge and ULEZ-exempt, making it the perfect vehicle for city use.

Fiat 500X Hybrid and Tipo Hybrid The recently launched 500X Hybrid and Tipo Hybrid, which both feature 48-Volt Hybrid engines, reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 11 per cent contributing to lower total cost of ownership, a key consideration for any fleet decision maker.

500X Hybrid is the ideal addition to the model line-up, having recently exceeded 750,000 registrations since its launch in 2014. Available as a soft top, the hybrid version of the 500X introduces a new sevenspeed dual-clutch automatic transmission, supporting a smooth driving experience. The exterior look has also been refreshed, most notably with the front taking on the new ‘500’ logo, while the rear includes ‘FIAT’

Fiat Panda The Panda range features two engine options and numerous trim levels to choose from depending on business or individual needs.

The Hybrid 1.0 GSE 70hp is available across the two-wheel drive range and benefits from improved fuel efficiency and a reduction in CO2 emissions while driving, as well as enhanced driving dynamics and comfort.

Fiat Panda is also available with a Petrol 0.9 85hp TWINAIR engine across the 4x4 range.

Fiat 500 Hybrid Meanwhile, 500 Hybrid, available as a hatchback or cabriolet, continues to capture the imagination, courtesy of its iconic and unmistakable styling, while customers also benefit from increased driving efficiencies and a more refined and relaxing driving experience.

There is a 500 Hybrid for everyone, thanks to the generous trim levels and endless customisation options.

Fiat (RED) The whole Fiat model range is now available with a (RED) trim level after Fiat entered a partnership with global charity, (RED), in September 2021. (RED), founded by U2’s Bono and Bobby Shriver, works with iconic brands and personalities to create (RED) products and experiences to raise money and support programs that help millions of people impacted by global health emergences like AIDS and COVID. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.fiat.co.uk

Issue 138 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

17

ELECTRIC DRIVE. NO RANGE-ANXIETY.

AWARD - W I N N I N G

ELECTRIC VAN

TOTAL FLE XIBLE R AN GE

31 9 MILES

*

PURE EV RANGE

6 4 M I LES

*

VEHICLE SIZE CLASS: MEDIUM VAN

VN5 is a van that redefines expectations. With a total flexible range of 319 miles and a pure electric range of 64 miles*, it is designed to maximise productivity, to minimise downtime and to give you more time on the road.

Benefiting from a first-in-sector body construction, it is built to last twice as long as other vans.

Its proven resilience and reduced fuel costs help deliver a remarkably low total cost of ownership to future-proof your business.

**

Find out more at m.levc.com/go-the-distance * Total flexible range of 318.9 and pure EV range of 63.8 miles, official EAER (Equivalent All Electric Range) figure, achieved under WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure) test conditions.

* * 5 year / 150,000 mile Vehicle warranty, 8 year / 150,000 mile Battery warranty. Terms and exclusions apply, full details available: levc.com/warranty.

Beginning your EV transition Most fleet managers now realise that they need to begin to transition to EVs and, as with the beginning of any major change, the few first steps can seem daunting. However, breaking the task down into simple actions can make it much easier, writes Paul Hollick, chair of the Association of Fleet Professionals

Supported by

Workplace charging Workplace charging is a key part of your EV transition but perhaps the one that that is most open to interpretation and the individual needs of each organisation.

These are some points to consider.

How committed is your company to workplace charging? Will you install a few chargers to start with or go large scale straight away?

Where can the workplace charge points be sited and does this affect the viability of current parking spaces? How easy is installation both in terms of power and equipment, and the ownership of your site?

Who can use the workplace chargers and how? Are they open to all employees, just those with company vehicles or those doing business mileage?

Will the company charge for their use or are they free? If there is a fee, is it a perk or will a fixed usage rate by levied?

What rules will be put in place regarding charging if there are only a few chargers? How is this going to be monitored and controlled?

If charging commercial vehicles, especially with long wheel bases, are the parking bays big enough? L

Written by Paul Hollick, chair, Association of Fleet Professionals

Clearly, many company car drivers now Your commercial vehicle fleet wish to transition to an EV at renewal time At this point in time, electrifying your because of the tax and environmental van fleet is likely to prove trickier than advantages. Electrifying your fleet in this for cars. Generally, electric van range is way is haphazard though, and it is much markedly lower and adversely affected by better to take a structured approach. payload, which will tend to be reduced Examine travel patterns to identify suitable compared to diesel vehicles. However, as EV candidates. Initially, concentrate on with cars, adopting a clear methodology those covering low miles, making lots of will enable you to target early wins. short trips or who never do more than 150 When assessing candidates for miles in any single journey. However, you electrification, look at vans covering low could have high mileage drivers that never miles, lots of short trips or those that are cover more than 150 miles per day and never driven more than 120 miles per day. As these might also be potential EV users. with cars, it is possible that higher mileage Look for suitable EV alternatives to vehicles can be replaced by an EV as long established petrol and diesel models as they require limited range day-to-day. across all grades of your choice list.

Identify vans used on urban based Always use a whole life cost (WLC) drive cycles as this is where the benefit methodology when assessing the financial will be greatest, according to the impact of adopting EVs on the business. Never experience of AFP fleet managers. use capital cost or purchase price, Investigate the availability of which will deliver an unrealistic the right types of vehicle for picture and be weighted electrification. While there are A lways against electric vehicles. many fewer electric van use a w In terms of the WLC choices than cars, new h o le life cos calculation, remember models are appearing also to include costs on an almost weekly method t (WLC) such as London basis, so keep on top assessin ology when Congestion Charge or of the latest news. g the fin impact ancial similar if the vehicles Examine the o are regularly travelling potential for scenarios electric f adopting veh within Clean Air Zones. where charging is carried the bus icles on Also, reflect any additional out at work, as part of iness charging costs if the normal journey patterns employee does not have or at home, and develop an access to a home charge point understanding of how this will Review your leasing contract renewal dates. Some vehicles may be worth terminating early because of the current low EV taxation situation.

Issue a driver survey to assess the likely take-up of EVs plus any potential issues. Include within this factors such as the benefits of low benefit in kind tax and fuel costs but also be realistic about the potential range of vehicles.

Interview drivers who want to adopt an EV to check that they have off-road parking where a charger can be fitted or they can access charging at work. Ask them if they are happy to charge as part of their daily routine and can explain how using an EV will fit into their work routine and typical journey profile. Work with drivers that are early adopters within your fleet to become EV advocates and drive internal engagement.

affect van use from an operational point of view, as well as the charging costs involved.

If employees will be required to charge their electric van at home, the company should expect to cover the costs of a charger. The AER rate for power used will not generally cover the employee’s domestic energy costs, so you may well need to reimburse on an actual cost basis.

Issue communications to inform drivers that EVs are coming and highlight the positives for them and for the business.

Accelerating to Zero Emissions

FLEET MANAGEMENT

The pointers here are taken from the AFP’s “Assessing Suitability for EVs” guide.

The AFP’s EV hub, sponsored by Nissan, also contains advice on many aspects of EV fleet management, and can be found at https://ev-hub.theafp.co.uk.

FURTHER INFORMATION www.theafp.co.uk

19

Accelerating to Zero Emissions Written by Benedict Harrison, sustainable energy and transport consultant at Cenex

EV CHARGING

Start with your duty cycles for a smooth EV transition Knowing your fleet’s daily duty cycles is the first step to installing the right chargepoint infrastructure for electric vehicles, writes Benedict Harrison, sustainable energy and transport consultant at Cenex An electric fleet brings the benefits of immediate carbon reduction, improved local air quality and running cost savings for years to come.

The initial capital costs for new vehicles and chargepoints can be expensive though, but making the right decisions early on will pay off down the road.

Chargepoint infrastructure is a long-term investment and there are several factors to consider when making your decisions.

Where possible vehicles should be charged as slowly as possible and for as long as possible to reduce any spikes in power demand.

Heavier vehicles, such as refuse-collection vehicles or lorries, will have much larger batteries and will need more energy to run, therefore it is likely that you will need lots of fast or rapid chargers to ensure this fleet remains operational.

However, it is likely in either case that you will require a new grid connection or an upgrade to power the chargepoints.

Duty cycles At this stage you should be contacting Your fleet’s daily duty cycles will inform your your Distribution Network Operator (DNO) to decisions on both what vehicles will be the discuss your options and costs with them. best fit for your operations and what charging Your current connection may be large infrastructure those vehicles will need. enough and there may be enough spare These will tell you how much energy will capacity in the network that you can simply be needed, and when and for what length of pay for more capacity, or they will be time the vehicles will be available to charge. able to tell you if you need an upgrade.

Details from a duty cycle to look at can If you need an upgrade this will potentially include, but are not limited to, the mileage, the involve anything from new cables to a new routes (whether it is city or motorway driving), substation which can add significant costs and where and when they are parked. and should be avoided where possible.

This will provide some of the There are alternatives specifications that will help to consider before going Your you chose the most suitable for a DNO upgrade, such fleet’s d electric vehicle, and the as load management. a il y duty cy number and type of This system looks at cles wil inform chargepoints required how much available l yo at the workplace. capacity you have on wha ur decisions If a van has a 70 and divides that t v e h icles to get and kilowatt-hour battery equally across what ch and 10 hours to a r g in in frastruc g charge, say overnight, tu then you could get you wil re l away with charging on need a 7 kw standard charger; whereas a van required for back-to-back shifts might need a rapid charger to top it up as quickly as possible between shifts.

It is important to select the right type of chargepoint for the right use as this will keep costs down and utilisation up.

Installing lots of high-powered chargers can lead to expensive grid connection or upgrade costs, although, sometimes this is necessary.

Site capacity Any site has a limited electricity capacity and adding chargepoints could take you up to or over that capacity.

Your energy supplier will be able to inform you of your site’s capacity, and a comparison with your meter readings can inform you how much, if any, spare capacity you have.

20

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

your chargepoints to ensure that vehicles charge as quickly as possible, without breaching your available capacity.

There are different levels of load management, and the most advanced dynamic systems are able to look at how much power your site is using as it varies throughout the day, and then split any available capacity across your chargepoints.

Off-site charging Another solution to avoiding a site upgrade is to utilise the public charging network or home charging schemes.

This could be particularly useful if fleet vehicles go home with staff or if vehicles are far away from the depot.

Using public or home chargers could save you the costs of installing chargepoints, and software and hardware is coming to market that allows you to manage expenses from this.

Another alternative to charging vehicles offsite is joining forces with other organisations to create a shared charging hub and dividing the costs and access equally between partners.

Off-site charging is often more expensive for the electricity, as inevitably the energy supplier is looking to make a profit.

It can also be harder to manage chargepoint use and ensure that chargepoints are available for charging, however it comes with lower upfront costs and no need to deal with maintenance.

EV champions The transition to an electric fleet is a team effort for any organisation.

Drivers, fleet managers, site managers and finance teams should all be consulted on duty cycles, energy requirements and resource capacity.

It is also important everyone is on board with the switch to electric, by informing staff of the motivations, benefits and the necessary behaviour changes that come with recharging a battery over refuelling a tank.

EV champions – staff members who are passionate about an electric fleet – can be beneficial to a successful transition.

Colleagues can teach each other rather than be told what to do and this can encourage acceptance of the new technology.

Staff should be trained in how to drive the electric vehicles and how to use the chargepoints, as new habits will need to be formed to maintain a smooth operation.

Install in phases Cenex recently conducted a fleet and infrastructure analysis for an organisation to assess suitable electric vehicle replacements and necessary depot chargepoints, and made recommendations based on the financial, logistical and energy implications.

As well as the site’s capacity for charging and parking, the vehicle duty cycles informed decisions on the number and type of chargepoints to install.

For this organisation, home charging and public charging options were found to be suitable in some circumstances to meet operational requirements.

The information gathered established a least-cost, highestimpact approach to electrification of the fleet which can be implemented over a series of phases, prioritising lighter vehicles.

Plan ahead In the switch to an electric fleet, there is no chicken and egg situation of which should come first, the vehicles and the chargepoints should be considered simultaneously which is why it takes a concerted effort from across the whole organisation.

It is important to develop a whole fleet strategy early on to ensure there are no unexpected costs and that the vehicles and chargepoints are all compatible.

There can be long wait times on delivering electric vehicles, especially in current circumstances, and you do not want vehicles sitting around unused while waiting for chargepoints to be installed.

Speaking to the right people will give you the confidence to make informed decisions that are best for the business operation, employees, and the environment.

Tusker – A tireless advocate for electrified motoring Tusker has been providing carbon neutral cars via its salary sacrifice scheme since 2010 and became a net positive carbon contributor to the environment in 2021 – offsetting more emissions than are produced by drivers. Whether with its employee salary sacrifice car scheme, or more traditional company fleet offering, Tusker has been helping to get more employees into new, affordable, and more environmentally friendly vehicles for more than 12 years.

As a tireless advocate for electrified motoring, Tusker joined the EV 100 Group in 2020, adding its name to a growing list of companies committed to switching their owned and contracted fleets to electric vehicles and installing charging infrastructure for employees and customers by 2030. Tusker is on track to achieve these milestones ahead of time.

Through advocacy of EVs and ULEVs, the switch to EV is well underway for Tusker customers, and momentum is increasing.

In 2019, just 13 per cent of its salary sacrifice vehicles were EV. Two years on and this figure has climbed to 73 per cent, and looks set to rise further in 2022, with more than 90 per cent of Tusker’s order book for this year being electrified.

The positive benefits of this fundamental switch amongst Tusker drivers – away from petrol and diesel and into electric – is also delivering remarkable benefits to the environment. In just two years, Tusker has lowered its average fleet emissions from 107.9g/Km, to just 37.3g/Km, and this average looks set to continue falling in 2022.

In 2021, Tusker celebrated Energy Saving Week with the announcement that it had surpassed another environmental milestone, having offset more than 250,000 tonnes of carbon emissions via Verified Carbon Standard programs.

With sustainability as a core Tusker value and the results speaking for themselves, Tusker is delighted to be a GreenFleet sponsor in 2022. L

Accelerating to Zero Emissions

SPONSOR’S COMMENT

FURTHER INFORMATION www.tuskercars.com

FURTHER INFORMATION www.cenex.co.uk

Paul Gilshan, chief marketing officer at Tusker, is responsible for all communications, new business, data and pricing and retention. He previously had roles with ITV, The Times and Sky.

Supported by

21

Why choose Tusker?

Advertisement Feature

Tusker – electrifying company car schemes Tusker has been providing its employee benefits to a growing customer base for over 14 years.

With a current fleet of more than 20,000 cars, of which 95 per cent are on salary sacrifice, Tusker has now put more than 60,000 vehicles on the road for customers, including NHS trusts, councils, and large and small corporations The strategy for Salary Sacrifice, which includes the reduced BIK rates currently available for Electric Vehicles, means those on lower salaries have been accessing EVs for the first time. It also allows Tusker to provide this benefit to those not offered a traditional company car where a higher salary or job role is a pre-requisite to a vehicle.

As a result of the unique way the scheme is set up, a huge 70 per cent of Tusker’s fleet are 20 per cent taxpayers ensuring that this audience who haven’t been catered for with company car benefits previously, now have access to affordable electric vehicles.

More and more, organisations are realising the need to reduce their environmental footprint and offering a salary sacrifice scheme enables the company to provide the opportunity for drivers to access lower or zero-emitting vehicles.

With increased competition in the workplace for employees, companies providing a salary sacrifice scheme can retain staff but also attract new talent because of the power of the salary sacrifice offering.

Among the many companies which have enjoyed great success with Tusker’s schemes are two leading energy providers, EDF and Engie. Both have reported impressive uptakes among staff, and transformed the emissions output of their grey fleets, while providing attractive employee benefits.

EDF EDF, Britain’s biggest generator of zero carbon electricity, adopted Tusker’s salary sacrifice car benefits scheme for its employees nationwide.

EDF has been running Tusker’s salary sacrifice car benefit scheme since February 2020, with a focus on electric vehicles and ULEVs. The company has had a great uptake of the scheme to date, with over 50 per cent of employees logging in to take a look at the scheme, and over 700 ordering a new car.

Employees of EDF are saving on average, over £270 per month, with 91 per cent of drivers opting for pure electric

vehicles. 20 of EDF’s sites are equipped with charge points, with 300 charge points installed throughout 2021.

There was a big lead up to the successful launch of the scheme in February 2020, to engage and educate groups of employee stakeholders individually. Since then, the scheme has gone on to be a huge success within the company, with the 500th vehicle delivered on the scheme in just 18 months following the launch, and a further 200 ordered since then.

“We’ve been really impressed with the Tusker salary sacrifice car benefits scheme.

In the current climate it is great because it is giving benefits to employees whilst saving us money!” said a Vanessa Corsie, Pensions Operations and Benefits Manager for EDF. “Tusker’s insurance is also brilliant for peace of mind, it mitigates most of the potential loss on redundancies, resignations, and maternity leave.”

ENGIE Another major UK supplier of green energy, ENGIE, has not only seen an improvement in employee retention and overall safety since beginning a salary sacrifice scheme with Tusker, but also, felt the benefit of the scheme during the COVID 19 pandemic.

ENGIE has been running Tusker’s salary sacrifice car benefit scheme since 2018, with 200 cars ordered on scheme to date.

Tusker’s salary sacrifice car benefits scheme has allowed employees to drive electric vehicles or Ultra-Low Emission Vehicles (ULEVs) without the expense and uncertainty that can come with electric vehicle ownership.

The scheme also benefits employers by

offering considerable tax savings.

ENGIE staff have been impressed with the choice of vehicle makes and models available on the Tusker scheme, with the most popular models being Tesla model 3, Audi e-tron, Toyota C-H, Kia e-Niro and Peugeot e-2008.

So far, almost all of the take up has been for pure electric or low emission vehicles (98 per cent), with just two per cent of ENGIE employees opting for petrol vehicles.

Due to the nature of ENGIE’s business, it has been able to offer employees who have an EV or hybrid vehicle on the scheme, free home charging point installations.

Importantly, during the pandemic, when many staff felt unsafe to travel on public transport, the Tusker scheme allowed employees to stay mobile when many key workers were otherwise worried about being put at risk without access to private vehicles.

From ENGIE’s perspective, the Tusker car benefit salary sacrifice program allowed the business to remain environmentally conscious, whilst still meeting its duty of care requirements around employee safety.

“Implementing and running the scheme with Tusker has been fantastic. The Tusker team are brilliant, they’ve held our hands with everything from helping us with employee education and engagement to providing roadshows and test drives. Tusker offers us a prestige service and I can’t recommend them enough!” Says Fiona McIver, Reward Director, ENGIE. L FURTHER INFORMATION For more information visit www.tuskercars.com

Issue 138 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

23

Accelerating to Zero Emissions Written by Energy Saving Trust

ENERGY

Energy prices and your electric vehicle The Energy Saving Trust looks at the energy price cap and how it will affect electric vehicle drivers, with advice on how to make charging cheaper and get the most out of a battery The energy price cap is currently in place to support customers who are on the default energy tariff with their supplier. This caps the amount they can charge per kWh of energy – this doesn’t cap the cost of your total bill. This is set by the independent regulator, Ofgem, and the cap is updated twice a year. The most recent cap announcement saw a considerable increase in cost – the cap will will rise by 54 per cent in April 2022 for both gas and electricity. This is due to a global increase in gas wholesale prices.

The high price of energy has led to many energy companies leaving the market which has affected 4.3 million domestic customers in the UK. Home fuel bills are increasing, pushing many households into fuel poverty. This has also meant customers have less mobility in the market and fewer suppliers to choose from.

Charging times Whether this will increase the costs of Typically, when charging an EV at home, most charging EVs is dependent on your current of the charging is completed overnight. This energy tariff. If you are on the default energy allows the vehicle to be utilised during the day. tariff, your price per kWh will likely be This can also be financially beneficial to the increasing. It may also be more expensive customer as low demand overnight can result in to charge on the public network – but this cheaper energy costs. This is dependent on your may vary dependent on the provider. tariff rates and how they vary through the day.

However, the fuel crisis has extended to This can be completed by manually plugging refuelling petrol and diesel vehicles with prices in your vehicle at low demand times, or by rapidly increasing over the last few months. integrating smart charging – more below!

Hence, charging an EV at home will still result in considerable fuel savings compared to Energy tariffs refilling a petrol or diesel tank.

Finding a suitable electricity tariff can Effectively charging and help further reduce the running driving your EV can help Whethe cost of your EV. EV tariffs are reduce your costs. Try these r the hig home energy tariffs designed tips to help reduce your h energy for EV drivers. Home Energy costs of driving your EV: Scotland recommend increas price will e t regularly comparing energy h e c of char suppliers to ensure you ging EVosts s is are getting the best deal. depend ent on Be sure to compare tariffs your cu against the overall expected energy rrent energy use across your home, tariff as rates will apply to your lighting and appliances too.

As a result of the uncertainty in the energy market, you may find that suppliers are not currently taking on new customers or that cheaper tariffs are hard to come by. You can find more information, and read about the types of tariffs available, on our website.

Consider combined offerings Some energy suppliers offer combined deals, or special perks, in partnership with vehicle or charge point manufacturers. These may include discounted or free home charge point installation, free mileage credits or rewards when reaching a certain mileage, or free charging.

These types of offering may save you money in the short-term, but we do recommend that you monitor the tariff to ensure it remains competitive over time.

Always read terms and conditions carefully and consider whether you want the freedom to switch supplier to ensure you are getting the best value for your needs.

When it comes to energy, no one solution fits all. Your preference will depend on your individual combined energy usage.

Smart charging Smart charging can help you access greener and cheaper energy. You can automatically

24

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

Smart charging can help you access greener and cheaper energy. You can automatically time your charging or regulate the rate of charge to avoid peak demand periods when energy is more expensive time your charging or regulate the rate of charge to avoid peak demand periods when energy is more expensive. They are still developing but are utilising smart phones to create apps for customers to track and change charging habits. Charging this way can save you up to £300 per year.

Since July 2019, all new home charge points have had smart features included. A smart charge point can send charging preferences via Wi-Fi or mobile data to a cloud system. This can track and reflect your charging patterns, and charge when electricity is cheapest. You can also set a minimum charge to ensure you have enough charge on your electric vehicle for your next journey.

There are different levels of smart charging – the future of smart charging will likely integrate V2X into your home charging network. This technology will allow your EV battery to be a store for energy which can be exported to your home, other buildings, and fed back into the grid.

Renewables Installing renewables in your home can be a great way to future proof your home. Electricity generated at home can be used to charge your EV, which will reduce the amount of electricity you import and pay for from the grid. This could help you save money on your energy bills, as well as helping to reduce the carbon emissions of the UK’s electricity network. As the network become less dependent on fossil fuels and is generated instead from renewable sources, this will create a more sustainable supply of energy.

Maximising the range of your EV Knowing when and how to brake can regenerate energy and increase the range of your EV. Unique to EVs, by simply easing your foot off the accelerator your vehicle will recover energy back into the battery, especially when coasting or going downhill. This is known as regenerative braking.

Up to 80 per cent of a car’s momentum energy can be recaptured and converted back into battery energy. This means when braking more frequently, especially in urban settings where traffic is busy, can recover a lot of energy helping you go further.

Most vehicles let you choose the level of regenerative braking according to your driving preferences. Less experienced drivers may initially choose a lower level and with time can increase this to convert more movement back into energy. Having this at a higher level will increase the range of your vehicle and help you get further for less.

Innovation that matters Innovation risks becoming an overused business buzzword.

The drive to innovate has pervaded almost every commercial sector and almost every layer of their supply chains. Technological innovation, in particular, seems to have become the new religion of our age.

But what many may consider to be innovation may not always result in real progress or meaningful transformation.

The latest shiny new product may be inventive, but will it really add real value to how we live and work?

Webfleet Solutions is committed to ensuring that its technology innovations are far more than inventions – but rather developments that will help deliver safer, more efficient and more sustainable business performance.

From a sustainability perspective, the potential rewards of smart telematics deployment have become monumental.

The importance of digital technology and data as a “key enabler” was reinforced in the government’s transport decarbonisation plan – it’s net zero pathway – and it is clear why this message is being amplified.

Explore the world of telematics and you will quickly see how the harnessing of vehicle data can now generate far greater environmental gains that those resulting solely from reduced fuel consumption.

Telematics advances are opening the door for business fleets to help save our planet by playing an integral role in accelerating society’s journey to carbon neutrality.

Incomplete management information invariably leads to delayed or costly decision-making – and indeed, without appropriate fleet insights, businesses risk employing the wrong electrification strategies.

Dedicated EV software has the potential to be truly transformative – enabling, supporting and simplifying the electric transition. WEBFLEET’s award-winning EV solution is leading the way here, with a range of digital tools that help signpost the most cost-effective route to decarbonisation.

Andy Warhol pointed out how “they always say time changes things – but you actually have to change them yourself”. Telematics is giving fleets the power to do just that, with innovation that matters. L

Accelerating to Zero Emissions

SPONSOR’S COMMENT

FURTHER INFORMATION www.webfleet.com

Other driving tips Avoid high speeds where possible, as drag increases with speed.

On average, the most efficient speed for an EV is around 20 mph for driving in cities. On highways try and maintain steady speed. If you have ECO mode available, this feature can limit unnecessary background features and maximise regenerative braking.

Heating can reduce your range – this can account for over 10 per cent of energy use. This can be counteracted by preheating your vehicle whilst it’s plugged in and using heated steering wheels or seats rather than heating the whole car.

General fuel efficiency techniques still apply to EVs. Maintaining a steady speed and reducing harsh braking can help get more out of your charge – see the EST’s website for tips. L FURTHER INFORMATION

Beverley Wise, Regional Director UK & Ireland for Webfleet Solutions

www.energysavingtrust.org.uk Supported by

25

Are you ready to lower emissions and succeed with a transformative EV fleet strategy?

Your ideal partner in decarbonising your business fleet

VEHICLES (4/21) Region - All

EXPRESS Search

Available

003 - Express ELECTRICAL 004 – Service

09:52, 78 Stagg Hill, Barnet, EN4 0PX, UK

005 – Express

29/02, 10:16, 81 Boundary Road, Woking, GU21

Battery level

33 %

Range

120 km

Remaining charging time

2 h 45 min

006 – Transport

09:53, Manchester (Salford), M3 6, UK

Webfleet Solutions is at the forefront of EV adoption, giving you the right tools to get the full value from your electric vehicles.

Our comprehensive platform is continuously evolving to help you effectively oversee your EV fleet operation for the long term. With WEBFLEET, you can continue confidently towards a goal of net-zero emissions.

Let’s drive business. Further.

webfleet.com

Beverley Wise, regional director UK & Ireland for Webfleet Solutions, explores the opportunities for fleets to harness data to support the electric transition Fleet electrification is gathering pace as the UK’s transition to a carbon neutrality intensifies.

Electro-mobility will have a vital role to play in our fight against climate change, and the call to action for businesses is unequivocal. With the sale of new fossilfuelled cars and vans set to end in just eight years, there’s a pressing need for fleets to establish robust green strategies, with clearly defined timelines for change.

In addition to public policy stimuli, electric vehicle (EV) deployment can also prove compelling when viewed through the lens of financial returns.

EV fleets will not only realise environmental and reputation gains, but they can also benefit from cheaper fuel – despite soaring energy costs – lower operating and maintenance bills, tax incentives, grant subsidies and charging exemptions.

For businesses looking to make the move, however, it can be difficult to know where to start.

Enter stage right telematicsgenerated data intelligence.

As fleets assess the feasibility of adopting EVs at planning stage, telematics insights can help them calculate prospective Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) savings. Tools such as WEBFLEET’s Fleet Electrification Report, meanwhile, will help them establish the typical mileage and commutes currently undertaken by drivers.

Drawing upon data from existing vehicles, maximum daily ‘real world’ mileages can be selected by fleet managers, along with criteria ranging from road types to standstill times. And by doing so, they can identify their internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles that could be readily replaced with EV alternatives.

Consideration should also be given to the operational nature of journeys. Telematics insights can help shed light on these.

Although EV choice is improving, fleets should pay heed to payload requirements, along with other business prerequisites, such as the need to tow civil plant or other equipment.

Elsewhere, charging infrastructure and availability can be another influencing factor. Limited public availability can be a problem in rural areas, for example, while charging space can also be at a premium at motorway services, compounding range anxiety and complicating journey planning.

Telematics mileage and dwell time insights will help signpost where vehicles spend most time, enabling businesses to identify whether companies need to use home, office or public charging infrastructure, or a combination of all three. The business strategy will depend upon fleet composition and business use, and this will be unique to every organisation.

Workplace charging is likely to be of particular value to commercial fleets whose vehicles return to a central depot, for example, for companies whose field-based employees face long car journeys to the office or for those who, due to a lack of off-street parking, are unable to install home chargers.

Scalability, taking account of future growth, should be built into fleet plans, but the charging landscape is rapidly changing and fleet decision-makers would be wise to keep one eye on the future.

New charge points are being installed on a daily basis, with the government setting aside more than £1bn to boost infrastructure rollout. From June, electric vehicle charge points must be installed in all new residential and non-residential buildings with more than ten parking spaces.

Advertisement Feature

An electrifying journey The data route to EV management Telematics insights will not only support the initial EV transition, but also the fleet’s on-going management.

Connected data can be used to optimise vehicle routing, for example, ensuring drivers make the most of their electric miles and reduce en route charging.

Range anxiety can be moderated by monitoring battery level and remaining driving distances. All the while, mapped coverage of charging points will help drivers find the closest EV charging stations via their connected sat nav devices.

Geo-fence alerts can be set up to identify commercial vehicles entering Ultra-Low Emission Zones, helping highlight where EVs could be used more cost-effectively.

SMR in the spotlight Although EVs tend to suffer from fewer maintenance issues, where problems occur, they can be out of commission for longer periods with repairs relating to electrical components calling for the discharging and recharging of batteries.

On-board diagnostics, malfunction alerts and connected EV health data, including battery status, relayed to managers from their electric fleets in real time using telematics platforms, can ensure preventative maintenance work is carried out in a timely manner.

Vehicle maintenance planning tools will also help fleet operators make use of real measured mileage to plan maintenance intervals.

Furthermore, the impact of harsh driving styles – including aggressive cornering, braking or speeding – on fleet maintenance costs can prove as damaging for EVs as for ICE vehicles. Advanced solutions such as WEBFLEET’s OptiDrive 360 will scores and profiles drivers based on performance indicators that relate to efficient, smooth and safe driving.

Armed with such powerful insights, progressive businesses will be better placed to make the right decisions at the right times.

Moreover, invest in a future proof-solution from a provider that has a track record of bringing cutting edge technology to market and they will be raising the bar in sustainable, efficient fleet management for years to come.

More detailed support for commercial fleets making the EV switch can be found in Webfleet Solutions’ guide to van fleet electrification guide. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.webfleet.com

Issue 138 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

27

Accelerating to Zero Emissions Written by Rachel Selwyn-Smith, ESPO

PROCUREMENT

What to consider when procuring EV charging Infrastructure Rachel Selwyn-Smith shares practical advice about what to consider before procuring charging infrastructure and how ESPO’s Vehicle Charging Infrastructure 2 framework can help There has been a steady increase in the number of electric fleets over the past decade and it’s easy to see why. They are cost effective and are backed by the possibility of government grants, tax breaks and other incentives. If you are looking to create a cleaner and more sustainable organisation through electric vehicles, you will find practical advice about what to consider before procuring your infrastructure and how ESPO’s Vehicle Charging Infrastructure 2 framework (VCI2) can help, in this article.

Purchase or lease?

Firstly, ask yourself if it is going to be more effective to purchase or lease charging points? Try and think long term as there are pros to both options; leasing might be your best option if you are looking for flexibility and would prefer to spread the cost over a period of time, whereas eligible customers who have grant funding available to purchase charging points outright do not need to consider long term spending solutions.

ESPO Framework VCI2 can make both options quick and easy for you by providing

28

access to market leading suppliers and the latest products and services. Lot 1 covers the outright purchase whereas Lot 2 offers the option for you to pay a monthly fee to lease a charging point(s). Both Lots cover supply, delivery, installation (including site survey), commissioning, warranty and maintenance.

This includes a detailed quote for all works that are required including groundwork and electrical. If there is a need for a distribution network operator to upgrade the electricity supply this can be arranged by the supplier and included in the quote.

Once your site survey has been completed and you have a better idea of what your final structure will look like, you need to consider the type of charging point. There are a variety of options including AC, DC, fast, rapid and ultra-rapid. Before deciding, it is important to check your current or intended vehicle criteria to ensure compatibility.

Management systems It is beneficial to have your charging points connected to a back-office system or charge point management system, namely the software and services provided by charge point network operators. Many systems allow you to view and analyse charging sessions, energy usage, transactions and faults as well as allowing access to regular payment information. Some also provide more advanced features such as managing charging sessions remotely.

ESPO Framework VCI2 can help you with this, no matter what stage of the procurement process you are at. Lots 1 and 2 offer charging equipment with a back office included, however if your charging points are already in place but you are looking for a new supplier, for example if your charge point management system arrangement has expired, then Lot 3 (Back Office Solutions) is ideal for you.

Location and quantity When considering quantity of charging points, ideally you should have enough Users chargers for your fleet. You could alternate Think about the profile of your vehicle but having a charger per vehicle will limit drivers. How often will the vehicles be potential problems such as waiting times, used? How often will they be parked at scheduling conflicts and compatibility issues. your depot? How long will they need Location is important too and can make to be charged for? What time of day or a significant difference when it comes night will they need to be charged? to budgeting. You can try to minimise You must ensure that your planning and building works, disruption and cost by logistics are sound in order to optimise your placing your chargers as close to your staff, driving and charging time as well power supply as possible. as your budget. Electric fleets Using Lots 1, 2 and 5 are a relatively new way of (Consultancy Services) of You working and naturally this ESPO Framework VCI2, c a n try to might leave you feeling you can gain access minimis overwhelmed. Lot 5 of to a site survey. e buildin works, g ESPO Framework VCI2 can support customers and cos disruption t b with no pre-existing y p your ch la specification for electric argers a cing to your s close vehicle chargers meaning power that you can gain access s u p p ly as poss to expert advice before you ible make any commitments.

Next, clarify who will have access outside of your drivers. Does your organisation offer charging points as a staff benefit or will visitors have access should they need to? If this is the case, then Lot 5 could be beneficial to you as the consultancy services can include energy capacity assessment, usage evaluation, scenario guidance and grant application assistance.

There are different options available to provide access such as Radio Frequency Identity Cards (RFID), smartphone apps,

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

From pre-market engagement and the expression of interest exercise, to proof reading your further competition before it is released to the framework suppliers, ESPO is on hand to support you every step of the way. We are here to ensure that you maximise the outcome of your use of this framework in terms of both compliance and commercials mobile, website or contactless payment. Users can be charged a pence per kilowatt hour rate, flat fee or per minute rate and your back-office system will have the flexibility to set pricing by different parameters such as length of charging, type of user or time of day. You might also consider charging different tariffs to different user groups.

Maintenance As if planning, implementing and budgeting for charging points isn’t enough to contend with, you will need to maintain them too. Lot 4 (Service and Maintenance) of ESPO Framework VCI2, allows you to appoint a supplier for existing charge points that are either out of warranty and/or maintenance cover. The good news is that most suppliers work in a way that you will be familiar with and should you experience any issues then it is likely that an engineer will be sent out to investigate further, replace parts or complete repairs.

Vehicle Charging Infrastructure ESPO Framework VCI2 provides access to a vast range of vehicle charging infrastructure solutions from market leading suppliers and is enabled to allow for direct award. For customers who have already conducted a ‘desktop evaluation’, a direct award can simplify the process, reducing time and cost in comparison to further competition. For customers with more complex requirements, further competition is also offered.

The framework has been split into the following Lots/Sub Lots: Lot 1 - Purchase of EV Charge Points; Lot 2 - Lease of Electric Vehicle Charge Points; Lot 3 - Back Office Solutions; Lot 4 - Service and Maintenance; Lot 5 - Consultancy Services (including site survey and feasibility studies); Lot 6 - Emerging Technologies, including Sub Lots: 6.1 Battery energy storage, 6.2 Vehicle to grid, 6.3 Car port charging (including solar), 6.4 Wireless charging, 6.5 Bi-directional chargers, 6.6 Integrated sockets, 6.7 Mobile chargers, 6.8 Bus Chargers and 6.9 Opportunity Chargers.

For extra peace of mind, suppliers listed on the framework were assessed during the procurement process for their financial stability, track record, experience, technical and professional ability and the ability to provide social value to customers in line with the Public Services (Social Value) Act 2012. All terms and conditions have been pre-agreed and underpin all orders. In terms of pricing in respect of direct award calloffs, what you see is what you pay – there are no additional charges..

FURTHER INFORMATION If you would like to find out more, please contact Rachel Selwyn-Smith on 0788 006 3251 or email place@espo.org. Alternatively visit www.espo.org/ vehicle-charging-infrastructure-2-vci-2-636-21.html Supported by

Unlocking unused off-street spaces near to where fleet drivers live We at JustPark are all too aware of the extraordinary pressure being placed on businesses to transition to cleaner air powertrains.

While we all know that the world must move to less impactful practices, the impending 2030 bans on the sale of new ICE vehicles particularly affect fleet owners and drivers.

The sale of EV passenger and commercial vehicles has grown exponentially, yet public charging infrastructure is falling rapidly behind. Sixty per cent of UK councils have no public charging strategy and we are already seeing divisions in the growth of public charging between the South and the North.

The government is asking businesses to make a challenging transformation not only in cost but in practice. We know that more than two thirds of fleet drivers do not have access to off-street parking and home charging.

This excludes millions of drivers and thousands of businesses from the enormous benefits of moving to EV. Charging solutions like FleetCharge levels the playing field by unlocking unused offstreet spaces in direct proximity to where fleet drivers live.

This creates a sustainable, viable and predictable strategy for fleet owners and users which will give them access to the functional and financial benefits of changing vehicles to EV. We know that change is never affected by one solution – it will be a blended approach, tailored to the exact requirements of each business that makes this a viable and cost-effective route.

This is why we are offering a free consultation with our EV accounts team for any business running a fleet of return-tohome vehicles. Our team will work with you to assess your current use, charging options and then recommend solutions.

To speak one of the team visit JustPark.com/FleetCharge. L

Accelerating to Zero Emissions

SPONSOR’S COMMENT

FURTHER INFORMATION JustPark.com/FleetCharge

Mike Strahlman is the director of EV for JustPark.

Passionate about the energy transition, Mike has spent the last 13 years across the Energy Industry including nine years at Shell and three years with Deloitte. Mike serves as a non-exec director of Giki Social Enterprise and on the Board of Advisors of BuffaloGrid.

29

75%

*

of fleet drivers can't charge at home and the public network is unable to meet demand.

Our solution?

With FleetCharge, we source a private EV charger for your drivers within a 10 minute walk of their homes. Giving them reliable, 24/7 access to park & charge their EV. Manage your fleet and receive insightful reporting all through one integrated app solution.

Visit JustPark.com/FleetCharge to discover more. *Based on JustPark research.

Advertisement Feature

FleetCharge offers a solution to those who can’t charge electric vehicles at home Even before the current surge in forecourt prices, the writing was on the wall for petrol and diesel vehicles in Britain. It’s already two years since the government announced a ban on sales of new internal combustion engine (ICE) cars and vans from 2030. In advance of this cut-off, more city centres are imposing clean air zones for high polluting vehicles In response, a growing number of businesses are actively looking to transition to electric vehicles (EVs). According to the SMMT, there are around 4.6 million vans on Britain’s roads, but just 0.3 per cent of them are electric, and more than half a million are powered by Euro 3 or older engines.

The drive to electrify received a welcome boost in March, when the government extended the Plug-in Van Grant, but progress remains slow: despite record sales in 2021, battery electric vans represented less than four per cent of all new EV registrations.

Rapid developments in battery technology mean ‘range anxiety’ is becoming less of an issue for operators: the main barrier to EV adoption is now – as it’s always been – the lack of public charging points.

The problem is particularly acute for Britain’s commercial fleet operators. Most drivers take their vehicles home at night, but 75 per cent* don’t have the ability to charge at home. Businesses can’t afford the lost time, revenue costs or associated risks of their drivers having to find and use a public charging point at a safe, convenient location. Assuming they exist at all – especially in rural areas – many aren’t suitable for larger vehicles or e-vans.

Home advantage But now there’s a solution – FleetCharge, which is knocking down the barriers for big fleets to electrify years ahead of plan, by providing exclusive off-street charging locations for their drivers who are unable to charge at home. A 7kW charging unit is installed, providing a home charging experience by proxy, creating a private charging network for the fleet.

FleetCharge has been created by JustPark, the UK’s leading driveway sharing platform, which connects more than 8 million drivers with over 45,000 private driveways, parking spaces, garages and other locations every year. Under the scheme, EV drivers will have

exclusive access to a domestic charging point on private off-street locations within a five-minute walk of their own home.

FleetCharge can be a big win for participating homeowners, too. JustPark will cover all the costs associated with installing the charger, as well as dayto-day running costs including any subscriptions and electricity costs. The homeowner can then receive a guaranteed income of £1,000 a year, tax-free.

The power of the community “In our view, the transition to EV is simply not possible without unlocking the power of the community,“ says Mike Strahlman, Director of EV, JustPark. “We recognised the need for a faster, simpler solution that would meet the needs of fleet operators, who really are at the sharp end of the transition to EVs. By unlocking the thousands of unused parking spaces across multiple settings including businesses, driveways, even church car parks, we’re enabling businesses and fleet managers to exploit the full benefits of transitioning fleets to EV years earlier than they could have done otherwise. And for the 75 per cent of fleet drivers who can’t charge at home, FleetCharge offers them a safe, reliable and guaranteed place to charge their vehicle in their own neighbourhood.”

Supply issues In 2021, one in six new cars registered was either a plug-in hybrid or fully electric vehicle.

Yet the imbalance between demand for charging and supply remains stubborn and stark. The total number of battery electric cars in the UK parc rose by almost 600 per cent between 2019 and 2021: the pulic charger stock grew by just 70% in the same period.

The SMMT has recently published its new seven-point plan to deliver an affordable, available and accessible EV charging network across the country. It calls for collaboration between government, industry and other stakeholders, mandated targets for infrastructure rollout, and an independent regulator to put EV drivers themselves at the heart of the planning process.

“While any and all moves to expand the public charging network are obviously welcome, it just isn’t expanding far or fast enough. Businesses want and need to make the transition to EV, but in too many parts of the country, the shortage of charging infrastructure still presents a serious practical obstacle,” says Mike Strahlman.

“With just eight years until the ban on new ICE vehicles comes into force, there’s now a real urgency to the issue. FleetCharge gives fleet operators and drivers an opportunity to get ahead of the game and secure a sustainable solution now.” *Based on JustPark research L FURTHER INFORMATION JustPark.com/FleetCharge

Issue 138 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

31

Charge ahead Upgrade your fleet Switch your fleet to electric vehicles (EVs) the easy way.

Our dedicated experts plan your tailored installation and reimbursement service.

We provide and set up your EV fleet infrastructure, from planning to installation.

We’ll take care of your chargers, with 24/7 support and maintenance.

We’re all about the details too, with precise reporting and billing data analytics.

With our ChargeCard and app, your colleagues will also benefit from our network of chargers across the UK, with zero fuss.

Supercharge your fleet today with E.ON Drive.

Visit us for more information or just scan our QR code:

eonenergy.com/ greenfleet

Roundtable: transitioning to a zero-emission fleet The country may have been in lockdown – but many fleets have continued to operate business as usual for the last 24 months and significant progress has been made in the transition to zero emission fleets. Wednesday 2 March marked the first live GreenFleet roundtable of 2022, and it was good to be back face-to-face with fleet managers who are at the forefront of the electric transition

Accelerating to Zero Emissions

ROUNDTABLE

Written by Kate Armitage

Greenfleet was joined by a mix of transport expertise from public sector, defence, engineering and logistics for our roundtable at the British Motor Museum to discuss the transition to an electric fleet. Our attendees included Gateshead Council, ODS Group, Morgan Sindall, RAF Logistics, Restore Datashred, Ready Power, Moy Park and Innovation LLP. Most notable was the diversity in vehicles from cars and small vans to 4x4s, tipper trucks, refuse vehicles and trucks and trailers (up to 88t) with some vehicles covering up to 400 miles in a day. We were also joined on the day

by E.ON Drive who as well as converting their own car and van fleet, has extensive expertise in recharging infrastructure.

What impact has Covid19 had on fleet policies?

It is clear that Covid-19 has created a lot of turbulence in the vehicle supply chain; in the early days the auto OEM shut downs created a lag on vehicle deliveries, but more significantly the well reported semi-conductor chip crisis has resulted ongoing delays in

vehicle deliveries. To further exacerbate the issues battery electric vehicles have a much higher volume of semi-conductor chips than their ICE equivalents. Our fleets unanimously reported long waiting lists (particularly for battery electric vans) and some auto OEMs have temporarily closed their order books whilst they cope with the backlog. On discussion, a 12-18 months waiting time was described as “the norm”.

Owain Pearce, from ODS group has already electrified 25 per cent of this fleet, he noted that “the key is to plan in advance [when procuring electric vehicles]”.

As a result of these issues there was consensus around the table that the replacement cycle for existing vehicles was being stretched by one to two years.

The rising cost of raw materials and energy plus a five-fold increase in sea freight costs has also had an effect on vehicle pricing.

As a result there is no negotiation on price, or discounts available for bulk orders. One fleet noted that OEMs were not even prepared to guarantee prices for vehicles on order.

Covid-19 has also created wider issues; public sector fleets have seen budgets frozen or cut as local authorities struggled to cope with pandemic, this is clearly having an impact on vehicle procurement. In one instance, plans to relocate the depot to a more suitable location for EV Charging have been put on hold indefinitely.

Despite all of these challenges, there was agreement that policy change (eg 2030 ICE new sales ban, Clean Air Zones, reform of red diesel) has had a bigger impact on fleets than Covid19.

Challenges to EV adoption Even with the current supply chain issues, what is clear is that the electrification of car and LCV fleets is progressing well. The ongoing success of EV Salary sacrifice has had a big impact on take up, with one fleet reporting that the majority of cash takers had reverted to the scheme, and they currently had 400 BEVs on the fleet and a further 200 on order.

It was clear that the discussion has moved on from vehicle suitability, range and cost to more nuanced challenges relating to charging infrastructure. E Issue 138 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

33

Accelerating to Zero Emissions

SPONSOR’S COMMENT

E.ON UK – accelerating the journey to zero emissions

 Infrastructure is maturing As the deployment of recharging infrastructure gathers pace our fleets are being kept busy on all fronts; installing and managing chargepoints in depots and offices as well as employees homes. There is also a focus on providing access to public charging infrastructure.

E.ON Drive offers fleet solutions for home, work and public charging as a “one stop shop”. Starting with feasibility studies and surveys, through to the provision and installation of charging hardware and supervision software, the E.ON Drive service also provides solutions for reimbursement of home charging and public charging access cards.

Our fleets reported different approaches to home charging and reimbursement, something that Innovation LLP provide advice to fleets on. Despite the fact that the advisory fuel rate for BEVs has now been increased to 5p per mile there was an acceptance that this was too low and many drivers would end up out of pocket. Some fleets are sticking with the 5p AFR for now on the basis that the company has provided a contribution to the cost of the home charger installation and the employee is better off overall with the BIK incentive. Other fleets are using specialist service providers eg tracking home consumption and pay the electricity company directly for energy consumed. E.ON Drive tracks the home charging consumption and provides a detailed report to manage the reimbursement of costs through payroll.

Many fleets are dependent on the public rapid charging network for longer journeys, and the experiences were patchy. There was a strong feeling that certain parts of the country were lacking sufficient infrastructure, and many of the existing networks were, on occasion, unreliable. Common problems included units out of order, insufficient chargepoints/queuing, unable to access the chargepoint, lower power than expected. OZEV has committed £950m towards the cost of upgrading the transit network, however progress is too slow for fleets using the network today and there was little optimism that this situation would improve in the short term.

The drive to zero emissions is arguably the most important endeavour of our generation. Fleet companies are in a position to make a significant contribution towards this effort, and E.ON Drive are here to provide expert guidance every step of the way.

We welcomed the Government’s Clean Air Strategy and the move

by Parliament to bring the 2050 net zero target into law, and we’re leading by example when it comes to electrification of fleet to support these ambitious goals. We’ve already switched 159 of our own vehicles to electric and installed over 50 charging points across our sites. We aim to have a completely electric fleet by 2030, and are now offering our employees EV leasing contracts as a salary sacrifice benefit.

Electric vehicles are rapidly displacing traditional options in fleets across the country, and with numerous financial and reputational benefits available, businesses that make the move today will establish themselves as sustainable pioneers, and be investing in vital infrastructure that will serve them well into the future. EVs are exempt from congestion charges, Ultra Low Emission Zone/ Clean Air Zone fees, road tax and BIK tax, as well as being cheaper to fuel and maintain. And with emerging technologies such as Vehicle2Grid (that allows electric vehicles to feed energy stored in their batteries back to buildings, or to the electricity grid), further opportunities to achieve even more cost savings are being created.

Ultimately, moving to an electric fleet is not only the sustainable choice, but the economic choice too.

FURTHER INFORMATION www.eonenergy.com

Are we on course to achieve net zero?

The UK has a legal obligation to be net zero by 2050. Encouragingly a number of our roundtable fleets have set more challenging targets.

Public sector organisations are aiming for 2030, other fleets are chasing 2035 and one organisation has a target to be carbon negative by 2035.

The 2030 ban new ICE car and van sales will go some way to take carbon emitting vehicles off the road by 2050. However, the lack of supply of larger vans is causing concern regarding the ability to hit 2030 targets. As already discussed, many fleets are reportedly extending renewal cycles by 1-2 years; which means for some they are only one renewal away from 2030, which means that the time to prepare for the mass take up of cars and vans is running out.

Given the diversity of fleets, for many the concern lies with the larger lorries and trucks. Whilst the ICE ban on 3.5-26t vehicles is scheduled for 2035, and for HGVs 2040, confidence in the room was low that suitable ZE vehicles would come to market. Would they be fit for purpose, and will they be financially viable? And inevitably, alternative fuels are still very much in scope, with one fleet investing heavily in liquid natural gas (LNG) in order to meet their 2035 targets, and other fleets preferring to wait for hydrogen. L FURTHER INFORMATION tinyurl.com/2p969468

34

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

David Butters, General Manager E.ON Drive and Director of Infrastructure Services

Advertisement Feature

Businesses should accelerate their electric vehicle uptake As the choice of electric cars entering the UK market is growing rapidly, more than 60 per cent of drivers say they would consider an electric vehicle as their next car, and with greater encouragement from companies Lee Brown believes the transition to EVs could move far more quickly

Despite pledges made at COP26, there could be global warming of 4C by the end of this century.

With nations such as China, South Africa and Indonesia saying they will probably need more time to align their climate plans with a 1.5C temperature pathway, it’s easy for any UK business to wonder what small impact they can have when nations across the globe are churning out such high levels of pollution.

Yet, seeing the numbers of young people in Glasgow during COP26 talking so passionately about the importance and urgency of addressing climate change, this should encourage us all to do everything we can.

Looking at it from their perspective, even the smallest gestures made by companies and individuals will contribute towards their futures and, for many businesses, a key part of that is the speed by which their at-work drivers move to electric, zero emission vehicles.

According to Lee Brown, who heads up The Grosvenor Group’s 0Zone solution, “any company that has drivers still choosing petrol or diesel cars in 2022 and beyond should now be questioning whether this is a good idea for both the driver and the business - and, of course, the environment.

“A company vehicle delivered in 2022 will remain on its fleet for 3 to 4 years,” says Lee, “and during that time we are going to see a very dramatic shift to electric vehicles, a strengthening of the charging infrastructure, a growing social conscience towards the planet, and a rise in the cost of operating combustion engine vehicles.

“Our advice, therefore, is for companies to do everything they can to play their part in helping towards that 1.5C goal by quickly moving their company car policies and choice lists to ultra-low or zero emission cars, unless there are genuine

exceptions where there is no suitable option to support a driver’s job role or if there are other inhibiting factors, such as drivers covering very high mileages.”

As the UK’s largest privately-owned contract hire and fleet management specialist, The Grosvenor Group is wellknown for its multi-award winning 0Zone solution, which has now been supporting companies with the transition to ultra-low emission and electric vehicles for 5 years.

As a result, over 55 per cent of all new company cars delivered by Grosvenor Leasing, and its specialist fleet management business, Interactive Fleet Management, have plug-in technology.

As the choice of electric cars entering the UK market is growing rapidly, more than 60 per cent of drivers say they would consider an electric vehicle as their next car, and with greater encouragement from companies Lee believes the transition to EVs could move far more quickly.

“Business cannot just sit back and expect their employees to drive the change to electric vehicles themselves.

“There has to be proactivity by the company to make the shift to zero emission vehicles, and it’s important to create a car policy that offers drivers the best choice possible of battery (BEV) and plug in hybrid (PHEV) cars, while clearly presenting the facts to them. This is relatively straightforward in the higher management grades, but the car policy should also make BEVs and PHEVs appealing in the lowest grades possible to increase uptake.

“It’s also important to be open and honest in the advice and support given to drivers. For example, the BIK position is presently very attractive for cars under 50gm/CO2 and the operating costs of running electric vehicles is low – all at a time when news headlines are about soaring fuel costs and how expensive it’s become to drive a petrol or diesel car.

“However, we are also likely to see a rise in operating costs for electric vehicles because energy tariffs will increase, and I suspect that the Chancellor’s unwillingness to publish BIK Tax rates beyond 2025 in the last Budget is likely to be down to a degree of uncertainty, but also that he doesn’t want to show a future rise in BIK rates at this sensitive time of transitioning to EVs. “All of this needs to be presented to the drivers, however with the ban on the sale of petrol and diesel engine vehicles coming into play in 2030 it remains important to drive through the changes now.

“As part of this move to adopt alternative fuels, we are encouraging customers to look at whole life costs for their policies as it provides a far better reflection of the true financial picture for ultralow emission and electric vehicles.

“Their initial on road cost is typically higher than traditional petrol or diesel cars, but during their entire time on fleet they work out to be more cost-effective, which is why whole life costs provide a more realistic financial assessment to base decisions on.

“Once the policy is in place, and the drivers are on board with the process, the transition to a zero emission future will effectively take care of itself.” L FURTHER INFORMATION www.thegrosvenorgroup.co.uk

By Lee Brown, head of 0Zone, The Grosvenor Group

Issue 138 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

35

Millions of people are at risk of the deadly consequences of conflict in Ukraine.

People are fleeing their homes and families are being separated. Many are going without food or clean water.

We must get critical support to those who need it most, in Ukraine and its bordering countries.

Please donate to the DEC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal, if you can.

redcross.org.uk/shelter or text SHELTER to 70141 to Visit

make a £10 donation.

By texting, you consent to future telephone and SMS marketing contact from British Red Cross.

Text SHELTER NO to 70141 to give £10 without consenting to calls and texts.*

Keeping in touch Your support makes a life-changing difference to people in crisis. We write to our supporters to update you about the work of the British Red Cross, and how you can help and donate in other ways. You can change the way we contact you at any time by visiting redcross.org.uk/keepingintouch or calling Freephone 0800 2800 491.

Privacy statement The British Red Cross is committed to privacy and will use personal data for the purpose it was collected or other legitimate purposes we tell you about: for example, to provide goods, services or information you have requested or to administer donations or services we provide. We may also analyse data we collect to better understand the people who support us or those who use or deliver our services. Sometimes this means us combining that data with information from reliable public sources. Our research allows us to tailor communications and services in a more focused and cost-effective way, as well as better meeting your needs and the needs of others like you. However, we will never do this in a way that intrudes on personal privacy and will not use your data for a purpose that conflicts with previously expressed privacy preferences. For full details about how we use personal data, our legal basis for doing so and your privacy rights, please see our privacy notice online at redcross.org.uk/privacy.

The DEC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal will support people in areas currently affected and those potentially affected in the future by the crisis. In the unlikely event that we raise more money than can be reasonably and efficiently spent, any surplus funds will be used to help us prepare for and respond to other humanitarian disasters anywhere in the world. For more information visit https://donate. redcross.org.uk/appeal/disaster-fund *Texts cost £10 +1 standard message (we receive 100%). For full T&Cs visit redcross.org.uk/mobile, must be 16+.

The British Red Cross Society, incorporated by Royal Charter 1908, is a charity registered in England and Wales (220949), Scotland (SC037738), Isle of Man (0752) and Jersey (430).

Photo © Michael Kappeler/dpa

We need your help

Panel of Experts

EXPERT PANEL ROAD TO ZERO As interest in electric vehicles grows in the fleet sector, our expert panelists discuss how to get around “charge anxiety”, as well as advice for adopting electric vehicles and installing charging infrastructure for a fit-for-future fleet

Lee Brown, head of 0Zone, The Grosvenor Group Lee Brown is head of 0Zone, the Grosvenor Group’s innovative and market leading solution to help companies navigate their way smoothly towards ultralow emission and electric vehicles. With extensive experience of helping companies make the smooth transition to ultra-low emission and electric vehicles, he offers a perfect balance between how fleets can drive down their emissions and the implications of policy setting.Lee joined the Grosvenor Group in 2001, and is well-known for his clear and insightful advice for companies with car and light commercial vehicle fleets looking towards their zero emission futures.

Colin Ferguson, CEO and co-founder, The Algorithm People Colin Ferguson is co-founder and CEO of The Algorithm People, which provides a unique, evidenced-based approach to fleet electrification. The company uses advanced technology to identify, which of a fleet’s vehicles are best suited to electrification and where infrastructure should be ideally located, thus encouraging the uptake of electric vehicles.

David Butters, general manager for E.ON Drive / director of E.ON Infrastructure Services Ltd Dave leads the day-to-day operational activities of the E.ON Drive business in the UK, managing the sales, delivery, customer operations and commercial teams. As part of the E.ON Drive management team, he plays a key role in setting and delivering the strategy for the UK business, identifying risks and opportunities and developing our electric vehicle (EV) charging solutions into new markets. He has been with E.ON for over 10 years and has built up extensive experience in the energy industry, especially in the development and implementation of commercial strategies.

Gavin Franks, director of business services, the AA A graduate from the University of London, Gavin holds a degree in Aeronautical Engineering and is a qualified accountant.

He has presented and written on subjects as diverse as the blurring of HR and IT, the role of the CIO, customer service and the digital journey, driverless cars and technology deployment.

Matthew Walters, head of consultancy services, LeasePlan UK Matthew Walters is LeasePlan’s head of consultancy services in the UK. Matthew joined LeasePlan in 2005 and prior to his current role, he has had looked after some of the largest UK fleets as both account manager and account director. His current responsibilities include delivering insight and improvement programs to LeasePlan’s customers and spearheading the EV charge. A keen environmentalist, Matt’s passion for sustainable futures, especially for all things EV, has led to a natural platform as a spokesperson and champion for LeasePlan UK.

Issue 138 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

37

Get wise...and decarbonise!

Let us help you decarbonise your fleet by using our powerful algorithms and evidence-based analysis to transition your fleet to electric in the race to net zero.

email : hello@thealgorithmpeople.co.uk web : www.thealgorithmpeople.co.uk

Panel of Experts

2021 was the most successful year to date for electric vehicle sales. Confidence in electric vehicles is growing as more models come onto the market, with increased range.

But now a different type of fear is acting as a barrier to adoption, with some arguing that ‘range’ anxiety has been replaced by ‘charge anxiety’. This is a fear that the fragmented and sometimes unreliable nature of the public charging network will hamper charging.

It is something that the government is trying to address; in its recently published its Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Strategy, it says that chargepoints can sometimes be difficult to find, difficult to use and may turn out to be in use or broken when a driver reaches them.

Even paying for electric vehicle charging can be unnecessarily complicated.

It stipulates legal requirements on operators that will enable electric vehicle drivers to pay by contactless, compare charging prices and find nearby chargepoints via apps.

So what are the problems of the public charging network currently, and how can they be improved?

Colin Ferguson, chief executive officer at the Algorithm People shares his thoughts: “The ability to book or reserve public infrastructure, would make a huge difference to anxieties around charging. Whilst there are many good sources of active chargers, there is still a problem with ones that may be offline, which doesn’t help when this infrastructure is a key part of your itinerary.

“Planning your journey in advance where possible, considering multiple potential charging options enroute, and also looking at other energy solutions, all mitigate ‘charge anxiety’, but doesn’t replace arguably, the ultimate solution of ‘bookability’. It’s looking unlikely however, this will be with us anytime soon. In the meantime, using tools, apps and journey planning software considering white listed charge points, is likely to be the best combination of solutions we have to mitigate any fears around public charging.”

Not being able to find a charge point close to home, knowing a charge point is working before arriving, and knowing if there’s a long queue at the next charge point are some of the concerns the AA is hearing from drivers.

Gavin Franks, director of business services at the AA says: “While the charging infrastructure is continuously improving and more charge points are being installed every day, there is still a significant amount of work to do to make sure that drivers feel confident about the switch to EVs. It’s important that we understand what the public charging issues are and how businesses like ours can support drivers while these problems are still occurring.

“Significant investment in charging infrastructure is necessary in order to support drivers however, while any investment in charging infrastructure should be seen as a positive, we need immediate action to address the issues faced with drivers without private driveways who are more reliant on public networks.”

For Matthew Walters, LeasePlan’s head of consultancy services in the UK, perceived range anxiety is becoming ‘change anxiety’.

He explains: “The general notion of doing something differently is often unsettling, but the best way to combat this is with education.

The more we know about a new way of life, the more comfortable we’ll feel embarking on it. For fleet managers and drivers who feel this way, reading up on the specifics of EV operation, costs and charging can help to eliminate any concerns, as can talking to a trusted fleet provider with EV expertise.

“The public charging network is constantly evolving, and accessibility is improving all the time. According to Zap Map, there are currently almost 30,000 public chargers across the country, with over 50,000 connectors, and these figures increase daily. One of the main challenges though, particularly for larger, nationwide fleets, is the north-south divide in the availability of public chargers. To efficiently make the switch to electric, fleets need to have access to the public charging network all over the nation.”

Lee Brown, head of 0Zone at the Grosvenor Group, believes there is a combination of issues that tend to concern drivers about the accessibility and use of public charging points. He explains: “Availability is, without doubt, a key one – and whilst the Government has now pledged to spend £1.6 billion on a network of 300,000 electric vehicle chargers by 2030, unless you live in a built-up area the public charging network is still relatively limited.

“The high numbers of 7Kw chargers and lack of rapid 50Kw chargers is also a real challenge. It’s all very well having the supermarkets and other public places offering charge points, but as these are generally the 7Kw ones it makes it almost pointless when drivers need to charge and get going. This is where the anxiety lies as drivers can’t wait for ages but also only gain a very small amount of charge from these points.

“This is coupled with the concern by drivers that, when they need to top up, the nearest public charge points may be in use – or the bays have been taken by drivers who have left their vehicle on charge and disappeared.

“Added to that are inconsistencies with apps and payment methods, and again its

good to see that the government has now pledged that users must be able to pay for charging by contactless card with a 99 per cent reliability rate for rapid charge points.”

David Butters, general manager for E.ON Drive and director of E.ON Infrastructure Services believes that the problem is a mix of availability and reliability, underpinned by limitations in infrastructure and cost of vehicles - and that there isn’t one single solution to this.

In terms of helping drivers get into electric vehicles, David believes that more can be done by government to unlock EVs to those who might find the switch too expensive. He says: “Introduction of a vehicle scrappage scheme could help with this, as well further funding opportunities like the OZEV grant. This will enable market growth, and with that the infrastructure will need to grow too. We also need to see the second hand market grow, and more companies like E.ON offering their employees EV company cars and benefits that include leasing EVs as part of pre-tax salary sacrifice commitment.”

David adds: “Companies operating chargers and charging stations need to be held accountable for their level of performance. Here at E.ON Drive we maintain an average of over 99 per cent availability across our network, this can’t be said of other providers though. We need robust regulations in place to protect consumers and ensure that when they reach a charge point, it’s not oversubscribed.”

Workplace charging Many EV drivers however will not be reliant on the public charging network; instead using workplace and home charging.

The government offers a Workplace Charging Scheme, which provides support towards the upfront costs of the purchase and installation of electric vehicle chargepoints.

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

When it comes to workplace charging, what should companies consider to ensure any charging points installed are future-proof? E Issue 138 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

39

Charge ahead Upgrade your fleet Switch your fleet to electric vehicles (EVs) the easy way.

Our dedicated experts plan your tailored installation and reimbursement service.

We provide and set up your EV fleet infrastructure, from planning to installation.

We’ll take care of your chargers, with 24/7 support and maintenance.

We’re all about the details too, with precise reporting and billing data analytics.

With our ChargeCard and app, your colleagues will also benefit from our network of chargers across the UK, with zero fuss.

Supercharge your fleet today with E.ON Drive.

Visit us for more information or just scan our QR code:

eonenergy.com/ greenfleet

 Gavin Franks says: “Organisations need to think ahead when it comes to planning their workplace charging facilities. We know that after 2030, new petrol and diesel vehicles will no longer be available to buy, so planning should consider how demand for those chargepoints will change over time, who will use them, what types of vehicles and how long will they need to charge.

“For certain employees, charging at work may be relied upon and therefore a necessity.

For those drivers, it’s important to consider how long their vehicle is will be parked at work for, what number of parking spaces will need to have a charger to meet this demand and whether it needs to be a standard charge point or a rapid charger. A standard charge point is ideal for vehicles parked at the workplace; however, a rapid charger would be required for drivers who are only there for a short amount of time and spend more of the day out on the road.

“It’s also necessary to assess whether you need to increase electricity demand to your site and if so, is self-generated energy such as solar an option? This could help manage your energy costs and also improve the sustainability of your business.”

Colin Ferguson shares some advice on avoiding unnecessary costs. He says: “Workplace charge points shouldn’t be installed arbitrarily, which can lead to unnecessary cost and potential future incompatibility. Taking an evidence based analysis approach, identifying the best locations, quantity, charge point types and how existing or future vehicles may interact with workplace charging, avoids costly errors and redundant infrastructure.

“Identifying the correct vehicles to carry out the required duty cycles, considering what future journeys may look like, factoring in government policy, extended vehicle ranges and the availability of other energy charging solutions, can and should be modelled to ensure the decisions around workplace infrastructure installations, are predicated on evidence, not guesswork. There are many specialist organisations who can assist with modelling what workplace charging looks like, how to make the right decisions and avoid installing the wrong types and quantity, balanced with meeting needs now, and into the near future.

Matthew Walters adds some other points to consider: “Important things to consider when implementing workplace charging are: how many sites you have, how long is left in your contract if you lease the premises, any plans to move or expand in the future, and, crucially, your current network capacity. One of the most potentially costly elements of electrification could be capacity upgrades, particularly for

larger fleets. Upgrading the local grid can be expensive, and you also need to factor in any preliminary work with energy providers.

“There’s lots to think about, and due to the cost of implementing EV infrastructure, it’s vital to look at your end goals. Fleet managers may be tempted to start small, but looking ahead and future-proofing for 2030 or beyond could save you time and money in the long run.”

David Butters from E.ON Drive stresses the importance of working with a trusted supplier who offers ongoing operation and maintenance support. “That way, you can rest assured that any hardware or firmware updates will be managed on your behalf. Here at E.ON Drive, we offer this service, as well as 24/7 support,” David says.

Lee Brown highlights some issues that companies should be aware of: “At the moment, many companies with workplace chargers are allowing drivers to plug in and use them for free, with no record being kept of who is using it and how much its costing per driver. Ironically, those same drivers who are charging for free at work are often claiming for their business mileage, which is clearly flawed and needs addressing as EV usage grows.

“Companies should therefore be installing Smart Chargers that can provide data on who is plugged in and what charge they have used so that some form of payment scheme can be put in place.”

Businesses also need to think about how many charge points they can have on site, the level of investment they need to budget for and whether the existing back office electrics

can cope. Lee Brown explains: “If you are going to charge at 25Kw or more, you need a tethered charge point, which is a significant investment and depending on the demand for workplace charging may, or may not, be a viable spend. If the offices are leased, there are also considerations around who pays for the charge points and the improvement to the electrics, and what happens if you leave the offices and move to new premises.

“It’s quite a dilemma, because there’s little point in having slow chargers - otherwise drivers will plug in and take hours to charge which means the facility won’t be able to adequately serve all EV drivers (employees and visitors).

“It comes down to the fact that a ‘futureproofed’ charging strategy must include home, workplace and public charging and Grosvenor’s 0Zone team looks at all of these areas in conjunction with each company’s fleet, location (of the business and drivers), mileage and vehicle usage etc on a company by company basis.”

Panel of Experts

A different type of fear is acting as a barrier to EV adoption, with some arguing that ‘range’ anxiety has been replaced by ‘charge anxiety’. This is a fear that the fragmented and sometimes unreliable nature of the charging network will hamper journeys

Starting out With considerable upfront costs for vehicles and charging infrastructure, there is a lot to think about when embarking on an electrification journey.

So for fleet novices, where should they begin?

How can they assess what vehicles can be swapped to electric vehicles?

Colin Ferguson advises that fleets use all the evidence available to them. He explains: “Similar to infrastructure decisions, evidence based analysis can be important in identifying the correct vehicles, how these may interact with infrastructure and crucially, how these vehicles will work in conjunction with existing vehicles, as part of an initial mixed fleet solution – as not all fleets will be able to go 100 per cent from the outset.

“A typical approach to date, is to look at the total cost of ownership (TCO) of the electric vehicles a fleet may be thinking of investing in, and compare this to its ICE equivalents, and make a business case. Taking a holistic E

Issue 138 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

41

12 MONTHS FOR THE PRICE OF 10

Track us right to your side

We’ll handle everything

Keep your business moving

0747

Ts&Cs apply.

Automobile Association Insurance Services Limited is an insurance intermediary authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered office: Fanum House, Basing View, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG21 4EA. England and Wales.

Company registration number 2414212.

electric equivalent, so this is your opportunity to make efficiencies and consider how you could replicate or even improve your operations with EVs. Instead of skipping to the end stage of choosing your new models, take this opportunity to improve efficiency, safety, welfare, and make significant cost savings.

For example, could you reduce the loads that your vehicles carry to maximise EV range and reduce charging frequency?

“Surveying your driver population can help to inform this change. Not everyone lives in a house with a driveway or dedicated parking space, so take time to consider how these employees will charge their vehicles whilst out and about.”

Once you’ve solved the charging puzzle, it’s best to start the electrification process with the ‘easy’ wins, advises Matthew Walters. “As an example, if your fleet make up is 60 per cent cars and 40 per cent refrigerated delivery vans,

Issue 138 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

Panel of Experts

 approach, and optimising current duty cycles rather than looking at ‘swapping’ vehicles on a like for like basis, can deliver not only cost reduction that can help fund the electric vehicles and infrastructure, but can also reduce emissions in existing ICE vehicles, accelerating the wider net zero objectives of the fleet.”

Agreeing that research and looking at an evidence-based approach is best, Matthew Walters says: “Looking at the transition to electric as a whole can seem daunting for fleet managers, especially for those with larger fleets. The first step to any EV transition is to do your research. Most fleet managers consider this to be looking into charge point locations and the makes and models of EVs you need. However, what should really come first is acquiring a deeper understanding of your existing fleet operations.

“In some cases, you can’t simply take your diesel vehicles and replace them with an

it’s much easier to look at the car portion of the fleet first. Not only are there more models available, but our industry generally has a much clearer understanding of what needs to be put in place. The electric van market is certainly improving, but it has some way to go to catch up with the electric car market.

“A trusted fleet provider can also help with this evaluation. If you don’t quite feel ready to take the leap yet, take a look at LeasePlan’s EV Readines Tool to assess your current situation and what comes next - you may find you’re further along the road than you realise!”

Gavin Franks from the AA also agrees that research is the best way to start. “Take a look at the types and models of EVs available, identify which ones would work for your organisation and then consider which drivers would benefit from going electric first, such as those with suitable mileage covered,” Gavin advises. “You also need to consider the loads the vehicles might carrier either as additional passengers or equipment and speak to the dealer about what this means for range.

“Throughout the entire process it’s important to engage with your drivers. As EVs are still unfamiliar to so many drivers on UK roads, it is important that they feel confident to make the switch. Familiarise your drivers with EVs before putting them behind the wheel and ensure they receive EV training to know they’re comfortable before driving. This could also help you to identify those drivers who are most enthusiastic about adopting EVs and whose advocacy will encourage others to follow suit.”

E.ON Drive is on its own journey to an electric fleet. Sharing their experience so far, David Butters says: “We’re in the process of going through this same transformation and we’ve faced the same obstacles that many other companies will. With regards to vehicles, we ran an extensive phase of analysis, looking at average mileage across our entire fleet, load capacity and job function. Nothing came close to meeting our requirements until Stellantis E

43

0Zone is The Grosvenor Group’s innovative and multi-award winning solution to help companies navigate their way smoothly towards ultra-low emission (ULEV) and electric vehicles (EV).

Our team of experts will help you drive down your CO2 levels and move towards a Zero emission future through a well-structured ultra low emission and electric vehicle fleet policy.

Through our operational review, we will look at the current suitability of ULEVs and EVs for your business, and the measures that need to be in place for alternative fuels to become an effective part of your fleet strategy.

What are the real financial implications of moving to alternative fuels?

Our 0Zone team will provide a clear and transparent analysis based on whole life costs, taxation, NI and other key considerations

For an initial, no obligation and free consultation with a member of our award winning 0Zone team, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Planning around barriers While last year was a successful one for electric vehicle sales, and the trajectory looks set to continue, with semiconductor shortages and other issues causing a delay in supply, how should fleets accommodate this in their electric fleet strategy?

Gavin Franks says: “The EV transition in your organisation doesn’t have to happen overnight. While the semiconductor shortages are something you may need to consider, it’s more important that you get the right vehicles for the right drivers. Not only will this minimise disruption, but it will also build confidence for your drivers and they transition to electric.

Remember, it’s a marathon not a sprint.”

Colin Ferguson says: “Analogous to how infrastructure is inextricably linked to electric vehicles, and so optimisation is related to how fleets can mitigate potential supply problems of EVs, by optimising existing vehicles, to reduce emissions now. Electric vehicles are part of a wider decarbonisation strategy for fleets, but all assets that consume energy and particularly fossil fuels, can be made more efficient through optimisation and how these assets work in conjunction with each other, is important. In this way, fleets can make a difference in the moment, rather than waiting until the electric vehicles they may have on order or are thinking about procuring, become available.”

Long lead times is not a reason to “sit back”, says Matthew Walters. “Lead times for both EVs and chargers are high at the moment, but they are just as long for conventionally

While last year was a successful one for electric vehicle sales – and the trajectory looks set to continue – with semiconductor shortages and other issues causing a delay in supply, how should fleets accommodate this in their electric fleet strategy? fuelled vehicles,” says Matthew. “In fact, lead times for some EV-only manufacturers are shorter due to their unique supply chain model. Long lead times don’t mean now is a good time to sit back - there’s a lot to think about before vehicles land in your office car park and on employee driveways. So, my best advice would be to not press pause – use this additional time to your advantage and drum up excitement among drivers!

“There are a few steps additional you can take to accommodate the longer lead times in your strategy too. You could consider alternatives in the meantime – flexible leasing products, including LeasePlan Flexible, offer an alternative for businesses needing cars or vans for several weeks or months.

There’s no long-term commitment, so you can simply extend, or off-hire, vehicles as needed.”

David Butters said: “We experienced this issue too, waiting up to five months for some vehicles. However, there are things you can do in the meantime to prepare yourself for their arrival. The biggest is ensuring you have the infrastructure in place. Work with a trusted partner on understanding your needs and installing the required amount of chargers.

“It doesn’t end there though. You’ll need to establish a reimbursement system, a way of knowing how much your drivers are going to spend on the public network or at home, as well as knowing how much electricity is being used at your site(s). We have a robust system which we offer as part of our service, and can even handle the billing side of things for you. We also

Panel of Experts

 Group developed alternative versions of the eVivaro. Once we knew which vehicles we needed, we undertook cost benefit analysis. This was tight, but we included other factors, such as our climate goals and other legislation – clean air zones, workplace charging levy, road tax, ongoing maintenance costs.”

Lee Brown believes that fleet managers should begin with establishing an ultra-low emission and electric vehicle car policy. He explains: “Far from being a case of just adding ULEVs and EVs into the various grades on a company car choice list, it is important to review a wide range of criteria.

“A key element of this is looking at whole life costs. ULEVs and EVs tend to have a higher on the road price, however over their time ‘on fleet’ they are less expensive overall due to their lower running costs.

“As fleets start their electrification strategy, the development of a robust ‘green’ car policy should, therefore, look at areas such as how budgets have been set in the past (e.g. contract hire rental, P11D), how the car policy can be set with upper whole life cost limits per grade to control expenditure, the types of ULEVs and EVs that are suitable for each grade/level, the suitability of the cars to the type of work the employees are undertaking, where drivers are based, and in which parts of the country are they regularly traveling – which has an impact on the available charging infrastructure and mileage ranges required “Also, look at the extent to which the policy can be all plug-in capable, or whether some drivers still require the lower emission petrol/ diesel models for the time being.”

have an app and chargecard that can make things simple for you.

“You’ll also need to ensure you put in place any necessary training to ensure your drivers understand the differences between petrol/ diesel and EV, as well as how to charge.

“There’s plenty to do whilst you wait for those first EVs to arrive, and E.ON Drive can help you with all of it.”

The best advice is not to panic or act impulsively, urges Lee Brown. He said: “The semi-conductor delays have caused enormous issues for all companies operating fleets and, if an electric vehicle has a very long lead time, it can become tempting to look at what stock is available more quickly – even if this is a traditional petrol or diesel model.

“By opting for an ICE vehicle means it will then be on your fleet for another three years or so, and with the pace at which the EV market is now moving that will begin to seem like a very long time!

“Even if the driver, perhaps impatient at not being able to take delivery of their EV, decides to accept a higher BIK tax bill in order to have a new car delivered, they may quickly regret that decision when they see their colleagues paying a fraction of the BIK when their EV arrives.

“Our recommendation is to talk to your leasing provider about extending existing contracts, swapping vehicles around on your fleet (e.g. a higher mileage drivers swapping with a lower milage driver) or looking to see if there are any other temporary fixes that could be applied – for example, your lease provider delivering any ex-contract cars from other customers on a short term lease.” L

Issue 138 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

45

Road Test Written by Richard Gooding

FIRST DRIVE

Volkswagen ID 4 Pro Performance 77KWH The ID 4 is the first ‘global’ electric Volkswagen. Expected to play a starring role in VW’s new electric era, Richard Gooding finds it to be a car with spacious appeal

What is it?

Following the ID 3, the ID 4 is the second model in Volkswagen’s new all-electric offensive. A more family friendly SUV in shape and style, it brings the ID 3’s technology and MEB electric vehicle platform to a more practical car. Named ‘World Car of the Year’ in 2021, the ID 4 is a more ‘global’ car than the ID 3. Sold in the US and China, the car tested and illustrated here is the 77kWh ID 4 1st Edition. The model range has been restructured since we drove the car, and while the model itself is no longer available, its battery and 201bhp motor remain on sale.

What range does it have?

Volkswagen has given fleet drivers a choice of two batteries and four motors with the ID 4, if you exclude the sporty GTX, bundled under four powertrain packages. The 145bhp, 52kWh ‘Pure’ package has a range of up to 213 miles, which remains the same when fitted with the 167bhp ‘Pure Performance’ motor.

Up to 318 miles can be driven with the larger 77kWh battery in 171bhp ‘Pro’ guise, whereas the 201bhp ID 4 ‘Pro Performance’ (tested here) variant can travel up to 320 miles on a single charge. On top of the battery choices are five trim levels – Life, Style, Family, Max and GTX.

a 7.2kW wallbox, a 100 per cent charge is complete in 12 hours, that time dropping to just under 8 hours on an 11kW connection.

How does it drive?

The ID 4 shares the ID 3’s ‘friendly’ face, with a slim ‘grille’ and large headlights. Its SUV style is obvious, but the rising waistline is graceful, and it looks especially good in its two-tone paint options.

Inside, there’ s the same 5.3-inch dash panel display with twist gear-selector as the ID 3, and an identical central 10-inch colour infotainment screen, with touch-sensitive buttons. Along with the haptic touch steering wheel buttons on the steering wheel they work well enough, but physical controls remain more positive. The ID 4 is well built, but like the ID 3, the famous VW quality seems to have dipped a little. More suited to families, there’s also lots of space; the tailgate reveals a 543-litre luggage area.

How long does it take to charge?

Charging at up to 125kW DC, the ID 4’s 77kWh battery takes just 38 minutes for an 80 per cent top-up at a fast charger. On

46

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

A more commanding driving position is immediately evident, and even though the ID 4 weighs around 300kg more than the ID 3, the Pro Performance 77kWh ID 4 still has strong pace from its 201bhp motor.

With a 50:50 weight distribution and its battery mounted low in the body, the ID 4 handles well and is relatively agile for a car so large. There’s more road noise than in the ID 3, but the driving experience is comfortable, quiet and smooth.

The separate ‘B’ gear gives increased regenerative braking.

What does it cost?

The ID 4 1st Edition at the time of testing cost £40,800 on-the-road. Now that model has been discontinued, the 77kWh ID 4 variants begin at £42,450 for the 201bhp ID 4 Life Pro Performance 77kWh. The most expensive ID 4 with the Pro Performance 77kWh battery pack is the £51,535 ID 4 Max.

How much does it cost to tax?

In common with EVs, the ID 4 is exempt from any VED charges in the first and subsequent registration years. One per cent Benefit in Kind (BIK) tax is charged for 2021-2022, rising to two per cent for 2021-2022 and 2022-2023.

Why does my fleet need one?

The ID 3 was the first pillar of Volkswagen’s new electric era, and the ID 4 builds on that solid foundation, offering a more practical and spacious shape. Although its family of powertrain packages can seem bewildering at first, there’s plenty of choice, with every version seemingly well-equipped, and also capable of a decent long electric range. A high level of technology showcases the new digital age it represents. Smart and safe, the ID 4 offers lots of appeal. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.volkswagen.co.uk Volkswagen ID4 Pro Performance 77KWH

ENGINE:

150kW / 201bhp electric motor and 77Wh lithium-ion battery

RANGE (WLTP):

The largest Volkswagen ID 4 fleet deal to date, Addison Lee will transition its 4,000-strong fleet to electric by adding 200 fully electric vehicles every month. The electric Volkswagen SUV is also available through electric car subscription service Onto. Customers have access to the ID 4 in Life ‘Pro Performance’ 77kWh configuration with a range of up to 319 miles.

3.45 miles/kWh 4.0 miles/kWh

CO2:

0g/km

VED:

£0 first-year, £0 thereafter

BIK:

1%

PRICE (OTR):

The ID 4 is already playing a starring role in UK fleets. A total of 450 ID 4s have been agreed in a deal by private transport firm Addison Lee.

308-319 miles

OFFICIAL EFFICIENCY: GF EFFICIENCY:

Road Test

Fleet favourite

£42,450 -£51,535 (including VAT)

Issue 138 | GREENFLEET MAGAZINE

47

Road Test

ROAD TEST

Peugeot e-2008 GT Premium

Written by Richard Gooding

Sharing much of its technology with the 2021 GreenFleet Vehicle of the Year, the Peugeot e-2008 adds more practicality to the same efficiency and long range mix, Richard Gooding discovers What is it?

The e-2008 is the electric version of Peugeot’s 2008 small SUV, based on the 208 small hatchback. The all-electric e-208 was named the 2021 GreenFleet Vehicle of the Year, and the e-2008 uses the same technology as Peugeot’s small car award winner. Built on the e-Common Modular Platform (e-CMP) – along with the DS 3 E-Tense, Vauxhall Corsa and Vauxhall Mokka, as all these brands are now part of the vast Stellantis group – the same 100kW electric motor and 50kWh battery combination are shared.

What range does it have?

Similarly to the e-208, the e-2008 is one of the longest-range small electric cars. At the time of testing, the single-charge range of the Peugeot small SUV was up to 206 miles. However, in early 2022, Peugeot added technological changes which improved this distance to up to 214 miles. A 7.4kW on-board charger is standard, but a £300 11kW unit is optional.

Two regenerative braking modes benefit efficiency. The standard setting modulates the set-up to give a sensation similar to engine braking, and the enhanced ‘B’ mode gives a sharper response and increased deceleration, controlled with the accelerator pedal. Easy to use, with a flick of the gear selector, it really makes a difference to the amount of regeneration on offer.

How long does it take to charge?

Peugeot officially quotes a rapid charging time of 30 minutes to 80 per cent battery capacity on a 100kW connection. This increases to in-between seven and eight hours on a home 7.4kW wallbox. On a 10A/3kW domestic socket, this rises to 24 hours.

How does it drive?

Externally, the e-2008 looks similar to its combustion-engined siblings, but gets a smarter

front grille and Peugeot badge with blue highlights. ‘E’ and ‘GT’ badges also feature, and overall, with its sharp creases and lines, the e-2008 is very distinctive. That distinctiveness is carried on inside, Peugeot’s 3D i-Cockpit placing all the important features and controls around the driver. The split-level dashboard might take some getting used to for some, but it works well. The configurable 3D instruments look great, and with quality of a higher standard then Peugeots of the past, the overall impression is a lot more premium. Practicality is good, too, with the same 434-litre boot as petrol and diesel models.

As with most electric cars, the e-2008 is immediate and spritely from a standstill thanks to its 192lb ft/260Nm of torque.

There’s more than enough performance for cutting through busy traffic in city streets and when the car ventures out onto the open road. As with the e-208, the e-2008 is refined, and delivers a fun driving experience. Easy to place, with a largely comfortable ride, the e-2008 can be a relaxed cruiser, too. Suited to urban and out-of-town environments.

Three modes tailor the driving experience for maximum range or more performance.

‘Normal’ is for daily use, ‘Eco’ prioritises range, while ‘Sport’ focuses on performance.

What does it cost?

The Peugeot e-2008 is available in five trim levels. The £33,265 Active Premium is the entry point, and includes 16-inch alloy wheels, auto lights and wipers, automatic air conditioning, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 3.5-inch digital instrument display, a seven-inch colour touchscreen, and an electrochrome rear view mirror. The £34,865 Allure Premium features 17-inch alloy wheels, leather effect seat trim, a 180-degree reversing camera, Peugeot 3D i-Cockpit, and an active safety braking function.

The £37,215 e-2008 GT adds ambient lighting and aluminium pedals, a blind spot monitoring system, front parking sensors, heated seats, LED exterior lighting, a 10-inch colour touchscreen and wireless smartphone charging. As tested, the £38,415 GT Premium includes 18-inch alloy wheels, adaptive cruise control, keyless entry, and alcantara seat trim.

How much does it cost to tax?

Under current taxation bands, Peugeot’s electric small SUV is exempt from VED charges, both in the first and following years. The e-2008 also attracts a one per cent Benefit In Kind (BIK) company car rate for 2021-2022, rising to two per cent in 2021-2022 and 2022-2023.

Why does my fleet need one?

Stylish, well-equipped and efficient, Peugeot’s electric small SUV has a decent range and is enjoyable to drive. Living up to its badging, the car has an upmarket feel, too, helped by the smart interior technology on show. Offering all the enticing appeal of GreenFleet’s 2021 Vehicle of the Year but in a more practical package, like the e-208, the e-2008 should fit the bill for those wanting a small car with low running costs. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.peugeot.co.uk Peugeot e-2008 GT Premium ENGINE: 100kW / 134bhp electric motor and 50kWh lithium-ion battery RANGE (WLTP): GF EFFICIENCY:

0g/km

VED:

£0 first-year, £0 thereafter

PRICE (OTR):

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

4.07m/kWh

CO2:

BIK:

48

214 miles

1% £38,415 (including VAT, £38,990 as tested)

APrIL 2022

Sponsored by

DRIVING THE SWITCH TO CLEANER COMMERCIAL FLEETS

ACCELERATING TO ZERO EMISSIONS

CV SHOW PREVIEW

PLUG-IN GRANTS

CARGO BIKES

RED DIESEL

ZERO EMISSION TRUCKING The role of electric HGVs, hydrogen, low carbon fuels and retrofit technologies in decarbonising transport

ELECTRIC DRIVE. NO RANGE-ANXIETY.

AWARD - W I N N I N G

ELECTRIC VAN

TOTAL FLE XIBLE R AN GE

31 9 MILES

*

PURE EV RANGE

6 4 M I LES

*

VEHICLE SIZE CLASS: MEDIUM VAN

VN5 is a van that redefines expectations. With a total flexible range of 319 miles and a pure electric range of 64 miles*, it is designed to maximise productivity, to minimise downtime and to give you more time on the road.

Benefiting from a first-in-sector body construction, it is built to last twice as long as other vans.

Its proven resilience and reduced fuel costs help deliver a remarkably low total cost of ownership to future-proof your business.

**

Find out more at m.levc.com/go-the-distance * Total flexible range of 318.9 and pure EV range of 63.8 miles, official EAER (Equivalent All Electric Range) figure, achieved under WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure) test conditions.

* * 5 year / 150,000 mile Vehicle warranty, 8 year / 150,000 mile Battery warranty. Terms and exclusions apply, full details available: levc.com/warranty.

Amazon unveils fully electric heavy goods vehicles in its UK fleet

Amazon is launching five electric Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) in its delivery fleet for the first time in the UK. The 37-tonne fully-electric vehicles are now operating from Amazon’s fulfilment centres in Tilbury and Milton Keynes, transporting customer packages with zero tailpipe emissions and using battery power. The five vehicles replace diesel HGVs, resulting in up to 100,000 annual road miles fuelled with renewable electricity instead of diesel, preventing 170 tonnes of CO2e from being emitted. They are the first of nine electric HGVs expected

by the end of 2022, joining more than 1,000 electric delivery vans currently on the road in the UK. Amazon’s first electric HGVs in the UK and Europe mark an important milestone towards the electrification of its fleet, forming part of Shipment Zero – Amazon’s goal to deliver 50% of shipments with net-zero carbon by 2030.

Heavy goods vehicles make up around 16 percent of the UK’s domestic transport emissions.

Amazon’s commitment will help play a role in reducing the carbon footprint of the UK transportation sector. Using the latest innovations in battery technology, the electric

trucks will soon be using first-oftheir-kind fast 360 kW electric charging points at Amazon’s Tilbury and Milton Keynes sites.

“Amazon is one of the first companies in the world to put electric heavy goods trucks on the road,” said John Boumphrey, Amazon UK Country Manager.

“We’re committed to becoming net-zero carbon by 2040, and this is a milestone as we continue to decarbonise our transportation network so we can deliver more customer orders using zero emissions vehicles.”

Eelco van Veen, DAF Trucks Director Fleet Sales: “We are excited to bring the DAF CF Electric HGV into Amazon’s fleet and support their commitment towards The Climate Pledge. The DAF CF Electric truck represents an important step in the industry towards zero emission middle mile distribution.”

“This is further proof that the UK’s logistics sector continues to be at the forefront of efforts to electrify fleets and transition to zero emissions vehicles,” said Investment Minister Lord Grimstone. “Amazon’s introduction of its first-ever fully electric heavy goods vehicles in

their UK fleet is fantastic news not only for their customers but for our wider efforts to end our contribution to climate change and transition to cleaner modes of transport.”

Amazon continues to focus on reducing carbon emissions in middle mile transportation.

This includes piloting a range of alternative delivery methods in collaboration with local partners, in order to increase efficiency and reduce emissions. In 2020, Amazon ordered battery electric trucks from Lion Electric in the US and began testing hydrogenpowered trucks, while also expanding multi-modal transport to reduce the emissions from road travel. Amazon is also evolving how it delivers packages to customers’ homes, and in 2021, it delivered more than 45 million packages in the UK by more sustainable transportation methods, such as electric vans or cargo bikes. Customers will see more zero emissions vehicles hitting the roads as Amazon continues to expand its fleet.

Commercial Vehicle News

ELECTRIC TRUCKS

READ MORE https://tinyurl.com/3xruufu8

ELECTRIC VANS

Medequip takes on 25 electric Mercedes eSprinters Lex Autolease has helped Medequip to reduce its vehicle emissions by replacing 25 of its petrol and diesel commercial vehicles with electric vehicles.

The Mercedes eSprinter commercial vehicles have been added to Medequip’s 460-strong service and delivery fleet, following a successful trial last year.

Medequip specialises in the supply of community equipment to local authorities and the NHS across the UK, delivering a wide range of apparatus and support particularly to older, disabled and vulnerable people in their own homes.

Through its partnership with conversion firm Gentili, Lex Autolease’s commercial vehicle fleet engineers have identified that Medequip will benefit from £1,200 of cost savings for each commercial vehicle replaced, with important CO2 savings across the fleet

expected to exceed eight per cent.

While the eSprinters will be able to complete a full day of home deliveries on a single charge, their fast charge capabilities will mean the vehicles can complete a recharge and be back out on the road again within just 60 minutes.

Peter Gaunt, Fleet Manager for Medequip, said: “The introduction

of a further 25 commercial electric vehicles forms part of our clean air programme which will see Medequip invest further in EVs for use across the UK. By late spring of this year, zero emissions vehicles will make up 10% of our entire fleet.

“The earlier trials demonstrated how well an electric van meets

the requirements of the business.

With vehicles scheduled efficiently to cover their defined areas, they are capable of completing a day of deliveries to homes on a single charge.”

READ MORE https://tinyurl.com/4yxr9sex

April 2022 | COMMERCIAL GREENFLEET

51

www.saicmaxus.co.uk | maxusfleet@saicmaxus.co.uk let’s get you moving

Almost £200m to roll out zero emission buses nationwide

The government has announced nearly £200 million in funding to roll out almost 1,000 zero emission buses.

Twelve areas in England, from Greater Manchester to Portsmouth, will receive grants to deliver electric or hydrogen powered buses, as well as charging or fuelling infrastructure, to their region.

The funding comes from the Zero Emission Buses Regional Area (ZEBRA) scheme, which was launched last year to allow local transport authorities to bid for funding to purchase zero emission buses.

The £198.3 million of funding will provide 943 buses. It builds on almost £71 million announced last year to support up to 335 new zero emission buses in

five areas, and a further £50 million funding for the UK’s first All Electric Bus City, Coventry, supporting up to 300 buses. It also adds to 100 buses funded by previous funding schemes.

The first orders have already been placed. Hundreds more zero emission buses have been funded in London, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The move is expected to remove over 57,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year from the country’s air, as well as 22 tonnes of nitrogen oxides on average each year, as government continues to go further and faster to achieve net zero, clean up the transport network and build back greener.

It is also part of the government’s wider £3 billion National Bus Strategy to significantly improve bus services, with new priority lanes, lower and simpler fares, more integrated ticketing and higher frequencies.

READ MORE https://tinyurl.com/3vw25v78

Twelve of Logistics UK’s members have already signed up to the business group’s Route to Net Zero commitment, pledging to decarbonise their operations as quickly and as effectively as possible to help speed up the UK’s path to net zero by 2050.

Membership now comprises of some of the largest names in logistics, including UPS, DHL UK, John Lewis Partnership, Wincanton and Scottish Water, as the sector unites to drive forward the decarbonisation of the UK economy.

Each member is following a different path to net zero, as they employ a bespoke decarbonisation strategy that works for their individual business. Scottish Water – the first company to apply and pass the application process to become a Route to Net Zero member – has set a target to transition to its operations to net zero by 2040, ten years ahead of the UK-wide legal deadline and five years earlier than the Scottish Government’s national target of 2045. Its plans to achieve this for the road transport section of its business revolve around converting the entire fleet to alternative fuel power as swiftly and efficiently as possible. While the company recognises that the current lack of supporting infrastructure and restricted model range is a significant barrier to speeding up its decarbonisation strategy further, it does have some advice for others on their journeys.

Scottish Water recommends others working within road transport to identify the ‘quick wins’: the changes that can be made easily, and the vehicles that can be transitioned now. Businesses must first consider whether this switch is viable economically; operational considerations are key too, such as whether the vehicles can be maintained locally, and the range. It is also important to start engaging with drivers early in the process too, as their enthusiasm and willingness to transition is almost as crucial as the vehicles.

FURTHER INFORMATION

ALTERNATIVE FUELS

Hydrotreated vegetable oil powers council fleet in Leicestershire North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC) is now using hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) to power its bin collection and street cleaning vehicles.

The council’s entire fleet of 109 vehicles will now either run on waste food oil or battery electricity by 2024.

The council uses a mix of refuse collection vehicles, housing maintenance vehicles, medium sized panel vans and smaller vehicles alongside more specialist equipment, such as sweepers and mowers.

It is estimated the council will achieve an estimated carbon saving of 1,221 tonnes of CO² over the vehicles’ lifetime. HVO reduces CO² emissions by up to 90% compared to diesel.

The council’s waste and recycling depot in Coalville will now be the filling up point for all the authority’s

Logistics UK members push foward with net zero ambition

Commercial Vehicle News

Logistics UK’s Denise Beedell

PASSENGER TRANSPORT

HVO-powered vehicles.

Petrol-powered cars in the fleet will be replaced with battery electric vehicles (BEVs), with charging points installed at key council locations to add to the 20 already installed in public car parks across the district.

Councillor Andrew Woodman, Portfolio Holder for Community Services at NWLDC said: “Removing diesel from our fleet is a great step on our Zero Carbon journey and allows us to quickly reduce our carbon footprint.

“We’re investing in zero or low emission vehicles and fuel for the future to lead the way across the district. It’s great to see our changing fleet take to the roads.”

READ MORE https://tinyurl.com/ycktu8e4

For more information on Logistics UK’s Route to Net Zero commitment, including details on how to apply as a Logistics UK member, please visit: logistics.org.uk/ environment/netzero

Denise Beedell, policy manager for vans and urban, Logistics UK

April 2022 | COMMERCIAL GREENFLEET

53

EV-ready security solutions Helping you to secure the next generation of electric and hybrid commercial vehicles Hook Locks Slamlocks Shutter Locks Shielding

EV-ready solutions available for: Citroën • LEVC • Maxus • Mercedes-Benz • Nissan Peugeot • Renault • Vauxhall • Volkswagen

To arrange a call with one of our fleet security specialists please visit www.locks4vans.co.uk/fleet

VISIT US ON STAND 5E70

The Commercial Vehicle Show returns to Birmingham

CV Show Preview

Sponsored by

Preparations to welcome thousands of visitors to the 2022 Commercial Vehicle Show are well underway, as the UK’s largest road transport exhibition returns to its Spring-time date Renowned for attracting a broad spectrum of manufacturers, equipment and other industry sector suppliers, bringing the latest products, services and technology solutions to the show, the annual gathering is the perfect platform to re-engage with existing contacts and connect with key decision makers. Hundreds of exhibitors have already signed up to this year’s show, taking place 24-26 May, demonstrating the longevity and uniqueness of the event as the largest and best attended commercial vehicle event in the UK creating new growth opportunities for operators of all sizes.

This year, the show will be welcoming many companies making their first appearance at the show, such as BP Fleet Solutions, Digihaul and NanoSun. The Show organisers are delighted that many regular exhibitors including SDC Trailers, Carrier Transicold, BOTT, BPW, Brigade, Gray & Adams, Kuda, Mandata, NLG and many others will be returning to the Show; as well as hosting regular vehicle

Fuel efficient pick-ups manufacturers like Ford, Harris Maxus, Isuzu, The Award-Winning D-Max by exhibiting Toyota and many other leading companies company Isuzu, is one of the cleanest and of all sizes from across the industry. With most fuel-efficient pick-ups currently on such an array on show, operators can the market. With a Euro 6D engine that expect another successful Commercial is ULEZ compliant and capable of up to Vehicle Show in Birmingham in May. 40mpg, the D-Max leads the pick-up pack.

“We aim for the Show to give visitors It comes complete with class-leading the complete package of the commercial safety technology and was awarded the vehicle industry with new vehicles, emerging maximum five-star safety rating in the tough technologies and the opportunity to connect new Euro NCAP test whilst retaining its with key decision makers and other individuals 3.5 tonne towing capacity and onewho are as passionate about the sector tonne payload. A first in the UK as they are. In particular, we are pick-up market, the D-Max pleased to be welcoming is fitted with the new a wealth of exhibiting The Liv ADAS system (Advanced companies ready to pass Theatre e s will Driver Assistance on their knowledge, address System). Every new products and services some o most cr f the model includes traffic to help organisations u sign recognition and switch to a cleaner facing t cial topics he indu cruise control, which fleet.” said Murray stry whilst a is adaptive on E Ellis, Show Director ns

questio wering ns f attende rom es

April 2022 | COMMERCIAL GREENFLEET

55

DON’T WAIT FOR EV Switch to the LPS II to power your tools and equipment and eliminate roadside emissions right now.

Recharges from solar, mains hook-up and alternator ZERO roadside emissions Quieter – so no downtime because of noise pollution Easy to install and remove Lighter - 6x lighter than traditional Lead/AGM systems.

CALL US TODAY

Find out how the LPS II can save you money, provide a better working environment for your teams and help you eliminate roadside emissions. claytonpower.com | ukinfo@claytonpower.com | +44 (0)2920 240 9396

Visit us at Stand 5C42, Commercial Vehicle Show, NEC, 24th-26th May

Fleet manager’s best-kept secret for zero roadside emissions

If you’re looking for a cleaner, quieter, and more cost-efficient way of powering your teams on the go, be sure to check out the Lithium Power Supply (LPS II) from Clayton Power, at the Commercial Vehicle Show. The innovative plug-and-play LPS II has been designed to transform the way commercial fleets operate.

The LPS II is a compact 230V and 12V power supply with a built-in lithium battery – and it’s about as easy to use and effective as it gets.

With one simple LPS II, teams on the go have all the power they need to get the job done – even when vehicles are turned off. The power system charges from the vehicles alternator and can recharge from 0-80 per cent in as little

56

as 60 minutes. The LPS II also has a built-in MPPT Charge Controller – so you can top up with solar panels, or hook-up to the mains.

Available in three varieties – LPS 3000W, with a peak of 5000W, LPS 2500W, with a peak of 4000W – and LPS 1500, with a peak of 2600W, there’s a system to suit every need.

Simply want to power basic equipment? The LPS 1500 is for you. Need power for heavyduty tools? The LPS 3000 won’t let you down.

With the LPS II power supply, you get zero emission roadside power supply. There’s no idling at the roadside – because you’re already charged and ready to go. So, there’s no need to burn through diesel, or carry generators.

DRIVING THE SWITCH TO CLEANER COMMERCIAL FLEETS | www.greenfleet.net/commercial

You’ll also get less weight in the van.

Just one unit means less weight – and more space – making every van 6x lighter than traditional systems.

You’ll also get less noise. With no need for generators, engine idling or PTO (power take-off), your operations become a whole lot quieter.

And it’s cost-effective too – the LPS II helps your fleet consume less diesel – and because it’s easy to take out and re-install, its lifespan isn’t limited by the van. All of which is good for the planet – and for your budget. L Check of the LPS II from Clayton Power at the Commercial Vehicle Show at the NEC from 24th – 26th of May. The team from Clayton Power will be on stand 5C42.

FURTHER INFORMATION www.claytonpower.com/uk ukinfo@claytonpower.com 029 2240 9396

SPONSOR’S COMMENT

MAXUS goes fully electric at the CV Show once again and is excited to reveal two new vehicles

A host of show content will be available to visitors to help address industry challenges, including a series of expert panel discussions, with audience interaction, which will take place in Live Theatres across all three days of the show  auto models and alongside the speed limiter function can help operators reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency.

The 1.9-litre Euro 6D engine fitted to the Isuzu D-Max uses the AdBlue fuel additive along with a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system to reduce harmful Nitrogen Dioxide levels. To help further reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency, all Isuzu D-Max models also feature a Stop & Start system which turns off the engine momentarily when at a standstill, for example, when in heavy traffic or stopped at traffic lights.

Sustainability Sustainability is a foundation of another exhibitor BP Fleet Solutions.

They’ve set ambitious aims to reduce emissions, scale up renewables and invest more in low carbon. At BP, they believe that electrification is key to helping the world get to net zero.

No matter the size of your fleet, or where you are on your low-carbon transition journey, it’s important to have a quality partner to help get you there. Fuel, electric or mixed, BP provides innovative energy and fleet mobility solutions for fleets of all shapes and sizes. To help drive EV adoption, they want to provide the fastest, most convenient network of charging – more than 8,500 public charging points in the UK with the ambition to increase this with 16,000 by 2030.

Bio-LNG and bio-CNG also play a crucial role in the energy transition and decarbonization of the heavy-freight industry and is another example of how they’re helping decarbonize hard-to-abate sectors.

They’re excited to work with an industry leader like Gasrec to increase the supply of biomethane for HGV customers. This investment further expands BP’s global renewable gas portfolio, an area which they believe will have an increasingly important role on the path to net zero. And in order to get immediate available alternatives, they are also working with Green Biofuels, who are at the forefront of HVO supply in the UK market, providing their customers with solutions to help them take steps to decarbonize today. This investment further expands BP’s biofuels portfolio, as they transition to become an integrated energy company.

BP Solutions will be showcasing their complete offering at this year’s Commercial Vehicle Show, including their all-in-one solution BP Fuel & Charge card, BP pulse electric infrastructure, their carbon offsetting programme called BP Target Neutral, digital tools like BPme app and much more. E

MAXUS is gearing up for its biggest CV Show ever with two new vehicle reveals planned, as part of the brand’s continued commitment to greener motoring, copperfastening its position in the commercial EV market.

While the details are still under wraps, MAXUS has confirmed that it will showcase two new vehicles for the UK market on Tuesday 24th May at 11am and invites CV Show visitors to join the team for the big reveal.

For the second consecutive year, MAXUS is going fully electric at the CV Show. The brand today confirmed that stand 5D110 will be a pure EV experience featuring 12 zero emission vehicles, including an e DELIVER 9 panel van, dropside and minibus, as well as featuring the e DELIVER 3 sports model panel van, tipper, specialist conversion van and milk float.

Mark Barrett, General Manager of HARRIS MAXUS said: “The CV Show is always a highlight on the calendar for MAXUS, but this year we are planning to go bigger than ever before. Extending our range beyond LCVs, we will be unveiling two new vehicles to the UK market on Tuesday morning, which we are confident will attract interest beyond the commercial market. This is a big moment for MAXUS so make sure to stop by our stand because you won’t want to miss it. This year we are also bringing our largest fleet of EVs to the CV Show with 12 of our most innovative zeroemission vehicles making the journey to the NEC Birmingham.

“Our stand will be fully electric for the second year running. EV experts from MAXUS and our wider dealership network will be available to CV show visitors to answer any questions related to electric motoring. So, for anyone considering making the switch to electric, this is a golden opportunity to get up close not only with the MAXUS EV range, but those who can offer advice and insight.” L

CV Show Preview

Sponsored by

To find your local MAXUS dealer or for more information visit our website below.

FURTHER INFORMATION www.saicmaxus.co.uk

Mark Barrett, general manager, Harris MAXUS

April 2022 | COMMERCIAL GREENFLEET

57

VEHICLE LIFTS

BRAKE TESTING

DIAGNOSTIC EQUIPMENT

VEHICLE PITS

INSPECTION & SERVICE

ONLINE TRAINING

CLASS 7 MOT BAY EQUIPMENT

FOR

WORKSHOP EQUIPMENT

Totalkare can support you in the design of your Class 7 MOT bay and application to the DVSA, through to the installation of the equipment and subsequent training and servicing. Ask us about our finance options and get testing today!

IT’S TOTALKARE

GET IN TOUCH: T:0121 585 2724 / WWW.TOTALKARE.CO.UK

Outside protected, inside personalised.

Innovative security solutions to guard your livelihood, everything else you need to make it work for you.

Register free now

Catch us at the CV show, stand 5D10 where you can meet with our team of experts and learn about our latest offerings, also available for EV’s.

58

0333 444 2200 ↗

sales@protectavan.co.uk ↗

protectavan.co.uk ↗

0333 444 6600 ↗

sales@tvl-ltd.co.uk ↗

tvl-ltd.co.uk ↗

DRIVING THE SWITCH TO CLEANER COMMERCIAL FLEETS | www.greenfleet.net/commercial

 Telematics Trakm8 will be showcasing how its solutions can drive up fleet efficiency and sustainability at the show. The business will be exhibiting at stand 5C10 across the three-day event, highlighting its full suite of fleet management solutions, all accessible via Trakm8’s insight platform, which provides managers with a 360 view of their fleet from a single source.

With rising fuel costs set to rumble on throughout 2022, the thoughts of many commercial vehicle operators will be turning to getting the most out of their vehicles. To ease that concern, Trakm8 will be showcasing its Route Optimisation software. Designed to reduce fuel expenditure and improve fleet efficiency, Trakm8’s Optimisation platform has a proven track record of increasing productivity by up to 33 per cent and cutting fuel bills by up to 20 per cent.

Trakm8’s Optimisation technology can also help businesses shrink their carbon footprint, with the intuitive software helping fleets to work smarter with fewer vehicles and hence minimising CO2 output.

The ongoing vehicle parts shortage is forcing businesses to manage ageing fleets for longer, a challenge Trakm8’s Connectedcare solution can help fleets address. Trakm8 will be delivering a series of live Connectedcare demos at the CV Show, utilising a live vehicle instrument cluster to demonstrate how fault codes on a vehicle are recorded within Trakm8’s fleet management software Insight, highlighting how the system can help fleet managers monitor for faults across their vehicle fleet, ultimately minimising the risk of costly, unplanned downtime.

The business will also be presenting its newly launched C430-S telematics device, a self-fit solution that can be moved from vehicle-to-vehicle, providing transport operators with a rich seam of data-led insights into driver behaviour and vehicle status. Coupled with the ACC750 Driver ID & Feedback device, this provides live in cab driver coaching and scoring. At a time when an increasing number of businesses are shifting towards the Grey Fleet model, a

CV Show Preview

Sponsored by

The Cool Chain Sector satisfies the special requirements of the temperature-controlled operator with a display of refrigerated transport and cold chain equipment. flexible, easy-to-install telematics solution such as the C430-S can be truly game-changing.

Also displaying its telematics solutions, Teletrac Navman will be showcasing its innovative AI Smart Dashcams and EV Readiness Tool at the CV Show.

The Smart Dashcam boasts a powerful AI-enabled dashcam solution with forward and driver-facing cameras that integrates with the company’s TN360 platform.

The Smart Dashcam is the newest addition to Teletrac Navman’s suite of intelligent driver safety products. The innovative approach helps build trust and reduce risk as the AI footage provides insights into driver behaviour and incident recordings.

This information allows transport managers and safety managers to protect their drivers through personalised coaching.

Also present at the CV Show will be the company’s EV Readiness Tool which guides transport managers through the electrification process from start to finish.

Peter Millichap, marketing director at Teletrac Navman, commented: “It is great to be able to showcase our leading technology at the CV Show 2022. It’s an important event on the calendar and offers a valuable opportunity to highlight our latest solutions for transport and safety managers. The Smart Dashcam and EV Readiness Tool are two pieces of innovation we are proud to showcase over the two-day event.”

Electric vans MAXUS is gearing up for its biggest CV Show ever with two new vehicle reveals planned, as part of the brand’s continued commitment to greener motoring.

While the details are still under wraps, MAXUS has confirmed that it will showcase

two new vehicles for the UK market on Tuesday 24 May at 11am and invites CV Show visitors to join the team for the big reveal.

For the second consecutive year, MAXUS is going fully electric at the CV Show.

Stand 5D110 will be a pure EV experience featuring 12 zero emission vehicles, including an e DELIVER 9 panel van, dropside and minibus, as well as featuring the e DELIVER 3 sports model panel van, tipper, specialist conversion van and milk float.

Mark Barrett, general manager of HARRIS MAXUS said: “The CV Show is always a highlight on the calendar for MAXUS, but this year we are planning to go bigger than ever before. Extending our range beyond LCVs, we will be unveiling two new vehicles to the UK market on Tuesday morning, which we are confident will attract interest beyond the commercial market. This is a big moment for MAXUS so make sure to stop by our stand because you won’t want to miss it. This year we are also bringing our largest fleet of EVs to the CV Show with 12 of our most innovative zero-emission vehicles making the journey to the NEC Birmingham.

“Our stand will be fully electric for the second year running. EV experts from MAXUS and our wider dealership network will be available to CV show visitors to answer any questions related to electric motoring. So, for anyone considering making the switch to electric, this is a golden opportunity to get up close not only with the MAXUS EV range, but those who can offer advice and insight.”

Flexible fleets LeasePlan will also be exhibiting at the CV Show to share expertise and resources to help fleets. Attending on stand 5F75, E April 2022 | COMMERCIAL GREENFLEET

59

magtec.co.uk info@magtec.co.uk

Electric drive systems for a range of commercial vehicle types Founded in 1992, Magtec is a UK based technology company that designs, develops, manufactures, installs, repowers electric drive systems for a wide range of vehicle types including commercial HGVs, buses, off-road multi-wheeled and tracked defence vehicles and bespoke specialist vehicles.

Magtec delivers aftermarket support through its dedicated service team and associated partners. Magtec is a major force in the UK’s electric manufacturing supply chain for drive systems for commercial vehicles.

Magtec Technologies includes motors, gearboxes, generators, power controllers, battery systems and condition monitoring systems, all manufactured inhouse in the UK, are specifically designed for truck, bus and special applications; such as autonomous vehicles, off-road, tracked and defence logistics and personnel carriers.

Magtec design and manufacture EV and hybrid vehicle battery systems from

60

27kWhr to more than 300kWhr using a range of high performance NMC cells.

Battery systems include full battery management, thermal management, on board vehicle charging and through-life condition monitoring.

Magtec have designed and installed energy buffers using super capacitors on commercial vehicles up to 27t GVW with peak power capabilities of 300kW and energy storage capacity of more than 3 MJ. Magtec’s range of power controllers are for drive systems 40kw to 500kW output power and operating at DC bus voltages from 200v to 800v.

Whilst the primary function of the power controller is to provide smooth and reliable traction control during driving and braking, Magtec controllers also incorporate all the other functions required to control the vehicle and battery system.

These include: Vehicle control interfaces (accelerator pedal; brake pedal), battery communications and pre-charge and isolation systems; DCDC converters for charging vehicle 12v or 24v systems; and

DRIVING THE SWITCH TO CLEANER COMMERCIAL FLEETS | www.greenfleet.net/commercial

auxiliary inverter for driving an external PAS pump motor and air compressor motor.

The controller software includes many standard features including: ABS/EBS integration / Creep functions; electronically limited acceleration rates; anti-slip function / Electronic diff-lock function; through life data logging / Remote GPS monitoring; and customer configuration tools Magtec’s family of motors and gearboxes can power electric and hybrid vehicles over 7.5T up to 44T. Recent additions include traction motors and gearboxes for rail application, which deliver high power outputs.

Magtec drive systems are provided with through life data logging as standard. Magtec can also provide vehicle logging systems that include GPS and GPRS based telematics facilities that allow remote software upgrades, remote system tuning and real time diagnostic facilities. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.magtec.co.uk info@magtec.co.uk 0114 244 8416

The Workshop sector is a shop window for operators to connect with exhibitors specialising in aftermarket services and vehicle maintenance.  LeasePlan will be able to help with switching to electric vans, assessing buying versus leasing, reducing vehicle off road time, and demonstrating safety and compliance.

Alphabet is also attending the show to help companies manage their corporate mobility in an economical and sustainable way. With both car and commercial vehicle funding and fleet management expertise, Alphabet offers a wealth of knowledge, supported by its comprehensive portfolio of products and services ranging from electric vehicle consultancy to risk management, delivered by its dedicated teams.

Industry issues As 2022 unfolds, the spotlight continues to shine on multiple issues from within the commercial vehicle sector, from short term shortages in resourcing, to long-term fleet planning and preparation towards the end of sale of conventionally fuelled vans in 2030 and HGVs in 2040. A host of show content will be available to visitors to help address these challenges including a series of expert panel discussions, with audience interaction,

which will take place in Live Theatres across all three days of the show. These talks will address some of the most crucial and important topics facing the industry whilst answering questions from attendees.

Murray continues: “Despite the challenges the industry has faced in recent months, it is time to look ahead, to prepare businesses large and small for the future. The 2022 Commercial Vehicle Show is the place for everyone working within the commercial vehicle sector to be at – offering the ideal opportunity for seeing new products and services, gathering information and networking with industry colleagues to discuss the most important issues facing SME and large operators. The Show is the event where business gets done.”

While new vehicle launches tend to grab the limelight, the Commercial Vehicle Show caters for every operator’s requirements.

Within the Show each year are two dedicated sectors, the ‘Workshop Sector’ and the ‘Cool Chain Sector’. The Cool Chain Sector satisfies the special requirements of the temperaturecontrolled operator with a comprehensive

display of refrigerated transport and cold chain equipment. Come and see big names including Gray & Adams, Paneltex, Carrier Transicold, Solomon Commercials and Dometic. The Workshop sector is an allencompassing shop window for operators to connect with exhibitors specialising in aftermarket services and vehicle maintenance. Companies exhibiting include TotalKare, Karcher, VehoCheck, PODFather, Stanley, Checkedsafe and eDynamix.

The Show presents an unrivalled opportunity for exhibitors to demonstrate their latest products and services to key decision makers, and to do so at a time when the industry is looking forward to renewing relationships.

“The Show is the only event that brings together new vehicles, emerging technologies and the opportunity to connect with key decision makers and other individuals who are as passionate about the sector as they are,” said Murray Ellis, Show Director.

“It was wonderful to see visitors back at the Show last September and the positive engagement reported by our exhibitors drives home the importance of the Commercial Vehicle Show to our industry.”

Many more leading brands are expected to confirm their participation in the coming days. To view the latest floorplan and exhibitor list go to www.cvshow.com L

CV Show Preview

Sponsored by

Taking place at the NEC, Birmingham from 24-26 May, visitors can register for their free tickets now at cvshow.com.

THE FUTURE OF EFFICIENT ECONOMICAL DRIVING

Eco Save Electric Vehicle Device

20-30% More Range

Less downtime, more productivity Efficient, economical & safer driving 24/7

Parksafegroup.com Parksafe Automotive Ltd, Ripley, Derbyshire, DE5 3NW Tel: 01773 746591 Email: sales@parksafegroup.com

April 2022 | COMMERCIAL GREENFLEET

61

THE BEST SHOW FOR YOUR BUSINESS

REGISTER NOW With the latest innovations and technology in commercial vehicles, trailers and equipment on display, the 2022 Commercial Vehicle Show is the best event for your business.

REGISTER at cvshow.com cvshow

the-cv-show

@TheCVShow

thecvshow

The government has a goal to end the sale of new diesel trucks by 2040. So how is the HGV industry progressing towards its zero emission goal? And what can freight operators do in the meantime to slash emissions?

The government’s transport decarbonisation plan, published last summer, sets out how the whole transport sector can reach net zero by 2050. It covers more details about how the HGV market can become zero emission, given that electrification is more challenging for heavy goods vehicles.

The plan says that the next decade will see “rapid progress and investment in zero emission technology options for larger heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), alongside deployment of supporting infrastructure and increasing demand from businesses.”

So how does the government see this transition panning out, and what support is it putting forwards?

Given uncertainty about which zero emission technology is most suitable for decarbonising long-haul HGVs, the strategy says it will demonstrate zero emission truck technology on the roads and will provide funding to support industry to develop cost-effective, zero emission HGVs and refuelling infrastructure.

The government also plans to stimulate demand for zero emission trucks through financial and non-financial incentives, acknowledging that that any zero emission vehicles on the market have a higher upfront price than diesel equivalents.

Electric trucks There are a number of electric trucks on the market already, with many more being announced.

Accelerating to Zero Emissions

Getting to the ultimate goal of zero-emission trucking Europe in 2023, increasing to 14,000 in Daimler Trucks’ all-electric light-duty 2024, 27,000 in 2025. The 16-tonne vehicle truck FUSO eCanter has over 200 vehicles is the first of the four variants which in operation globally. The 7.49-tonne range between 7.5- and 18-tonnes. vehicle has a driving range of around Northern Europe’s largest shipping 60 miles with a single charge, and is and logistics company DFDS has placed particularly suited for locally zero-emission an order for 100 Volvo FM Electric and quiet inner-city distribution. trucks, with deliveries starting in the Amazon has added five DAF electric fourth quarter of 2022 and continuing Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) to its delivery throughout 2023. The trucks will be used fleet, operating from Amazon’s fulfilment for both short and regional transport in centres in Tilbury and Milton Keynes. The the DFDS logistics system in Europe. five vehicles replace diesel HGVs, resulting Renault Trucks is expanding its range of in up to 100,000 annual road miles fuelled all-electric truck models with a 19-tonne with renewable electricity instead of diesel, variant of the D Wide Z.E. Meanwhile preventing 170 tonnes of CO2e from its Normandy plant in France has been being emitted. They are the first of nine producing the D Z.E. (16-tonne) and D electric HGVs expected by the end of 2022, Wide Z.E. (26-tonne) since March 2020 and joining more than 1,000 electric delivery new battery options for both trucks have vans currently on the road in the UK. also been offered since the end of 2020.

Using the latest innovations in battery Furthermore, Scania is supplying 78 technology, the electric trucks will soon be fully electric L-series trucks for urban using fast 360 kW electric charging points at waste handling in Copenhagen.

Amazon’s Tilbury and Milton Keynes sites.

Following the start of Hydrogen production this year, the Daimler The government expects low full-electric 16-tonne carbon hydrogen to play a commercial vehicle Trucks’ allkey role in decarbonising Volta Zero will electric li the transport sector. Its be in circulation g h t d t uty ruck FU recent Hydrogen Strategy throughout Madrid S O eCan has ove says the government in 2023. Volta t e r r is investing up to £20 Trucks plans to operatio 200 vehicles in n globa million this financial year produce 5,000 is well s lly, and in designing trials for E vehicles throughout uit

e city dist d to inner ribution

April 2022 | COMMERCIAL GREENFLEET

63

Cost effective clean air zone and operating compliance solutions for UK fleet operators

Whilst we are all anticipating to be on a pathway to achieve true zero emissions sustainable fleets, realistically we are a decade or more away from achieving this. However, the good news is diesel engines are able to deliver minimal levels of harmful carbon monoxide(CO), particulates(PM) and Nitrous Oxides (NOX) right now! This is achieved by OE Manufactures successive compliance with world class ‘Euro’ emissions levels which the UK rightly continues to adopt.

Euro 6 is the current OE standard which is achieved by implementing technology features such as Diesel Oxidation Catalysts (DOC), Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR–adblue), Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) and Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) systems. These systems are effective in reducing harmful emissions from diesel engines typically by over 98 per cent.

• • • • •

•

Driveline is a leading UK based manufacturer and provider of retrofit emissions control systems and OE emissions system maintenance and refurbishment services.

The company roots have been established in the on and off road fleet sector for over thirty years by Managing Director Stewart McLean. The philosophy is simple – compliance, reliability / asset up time and cost reduction are the most critical factors facing operators in all fleet sectors Drivelines core products and services address these factors directly in respect of all exhaust emissions control systems.

Driveline developed its econoxt system which is based on leading edge Euro 6 and 7 technologies, to provide operators with retrofit solutions to clean up on and off road fleet emissions.

The econoxt is designed to meet Government retrofit compliance requirements, ostensibly to achieve Euro 6 PM and NOX levels when retrofitted to Euro 3,4 and 5 engines (on road) and similarly Stage IV and V levels when fitted to Stage II/IIIA/IIIB off road engines.

The major benefit to retrofit of course is to achieve Clean Air Zone compliance and elimination of charges at a fraction of the cost of vehicle replacement.

In addition to retrofit products, perhaps more importantly, Driveline has developed a range of Euro 5 and 6 OE Exhaust system preventative maintenance and refurbishment repair products/services. Driveline has the largest network of dedicated exhaust system maintenance depots of any provider, spanning the whole of the UK and also locations elsewhere in Europe.

Considering the critical factors of cost reduction, reliability & fleet up time Driveline can deliver a cost effective preventative maintenance service at a fraction of the cost of OE network service exchange schemes, but can also refurbish Euro 5 and 6 exhaust systems with correct specification substrate components enabling operators to save many thousands compared to OE replacement parts. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.drivelineemissions.com

Reconditioning of Catalysts, DPF’s and EGR valves Retrofit Emissions System Upgrades A faster and more economic solution than buying new Quick turnaround We work with all types of vehicles and machinery, nothing is too big or small 12 month guarantee

We have depots nationwide: Grangemouth, Newport, Warrington, Penrith, Newcastle, Milton Keynes, Birmingham, Witham, Redhill (Gatwick) & Doncaster

WWW.DRIVELINEEMISSIONS.COM

64

01324 230167

DRIVING THE SWITCH TO CLEANER COMMERCIAL FLEETS | www.greenfleet.net/commercial

SALES@DRIVELINEEMISSIONS.COM

Accelerating to Zero Emissions Amazon has added five DAF electric Heavy Goods Vehicles to its delivery fleet

 electric road system and hydrogen fuel cell HGVs and to run a battery electric trial to establish the feasibility, deliverability, costs and benefits of these technologies in the UK. While hydrogen vehicles and re-fuelling are still in their infancy, there are a number of organisations that are already using the fuel.

Aberdeen City Council, for example, has added a fuel cell hydrogen waste truck to its fleet, which uses green hydrogen from existing refuelling infrastructure in Aberdeen.

The vehicles will not only result in estimated emissions savings of over 25kg CO2e/ litre, based on a diesel truck on similar routes, but will also collect data which will allow further rollouts of hydrogenfuelled waste trucks in the future.

There are also a number of trials occurring where hydrogen is used in specialist vehicles.

Project ZeHyDA (Zero emission Hydrogen Demonstration for Airport applications), for example, will convert a base aircraft tow tug vehicle to an electric hybrid running with a hydrogen zero emission combustion engine.

The project is being run by ULEMCo, Teesside International Airport, RAF Leeming, and Newcastle University.

The project will enable the engine to work with an electric drivetrain system, and to be demonstrated as part of the Tees Valley Hydrogen Transport Hub in ground support vehicles, alongside work to assess the wider opportunity for use of hydrogen at airports and in the region.

Retrofit Technologies Where electric or other zero-emission options are limited for heavy goods vehicles, approved retrofit technology is a viable option now, especially for fleets operating in clean air zones.

To assess the various retrofit technology on the market, Zemo Partnership and Energy Saving Trust developed the Clean Vehicle Retrofit Accreditation Scheme (CVRAS). Introduced in 2019 the initiative now has 24 accredited retrofit systems listed on the CVRAS-Register.

The transport decarbonisation plan says that the next decade will see rapid progress and investment in zero emission technology for larger heavy goods vehicles, alongside deployment of supporting infrastructure and increasing demand from businesses.

The scheme includes a certification process to approve technologies that can be retrofitted to (typically) diesel vehicles to reduce nitrogen oxides and particulate emissions and achieve Euro 6 / VI equivalent standards.

The CVRAS scheme is recognised by authorities responsible for Clean Air Zones in England and Wales plus London’s ULEZ and Scotland’s LEZs. It provides the only approved retrofit solutions which allow free access to these zones automatically by ensuring the vehicle is registered in the national CAZ checker database.

Low carbon fuels The government’s strategy acknowledges that in the short term, low carbon fuels will continue to be an “available and flexible resource to deliver immediate emissions savings in all road vehicles”.

The government says it will develop a strategy for low carbon fuels, from now until 2050, to set a clear vision for the sector.

The government’s transport decarbonisation strategy commits to supporting efficiency improvements and emission reductions. Ways to do this include using the Energy Saving Trust’s online Freight Portal, which showcases the commercial benefits of improved fuel and logistical efficiencies, including information on available technologies, training and advice which operators can adopt to save time and money while reducing their emissions.

Support will continue for organisations like Zemo Partnership and others in

identifying zero emission solutions for transport refrigeration units and auxiliary power units, producing an action plan for identifying the technologies available, barriers to introduction, and opportunities.

There will also be work done to explore the potential to increase the biocontent in fuels for use in compatible vehicles, for example through the use of higher blends of biofuels or drop-in fuels.

The government has also committed to maintaining the fuel duty differential up to 2032, subject to review in 2024, to encourage the use of biomethane and other gaseous fuels that create carbon savings compared to fossil fuels.

Sustainable freight The transport decarbonisation plan highlights that encouraging a shift from road to more sustainable alternatives, such as rail, cargo bike and inland waterways, can decarbonise freight. To do this, the strategy says it will be investing in the capacity and capability of the rail network for freight.

‘Last mile’ deliveries will also be looked at, as this has the potential to create healthier and more liveable places. The government says it will work with industry, academia, and other stakeholders to understand how innovation in the Category L sector can benefit the UK delivery market. L FURTHER INFORMATION tinyurl.com/3cbu49xr

April 2022 | COMMERCIAL GREENFLEET

65

DAF LF AND CF ELECTRIC

Fully electric transport solutions

With more and more municipalities requiring zero-emission vehicles in inner cities, the DAF CF and LF Electric range offers fully electric driving for many applications. Based on proven technology and many thousands of kilometres of practical experience, these zero-emission trucks help demonstrate your company’s commitment to sustainability. A good choice for your business and the environment.

Visit www.daf.com/daf-electric

A PACCAR COMPANY DRIVEN BY QUALITY

Grants extended for plug-in vans and trucks

Plug-in Grants

Sponsored by

The government has confirmed that the plug-in van and truck grants will be available for an additional two years, until 2024/25, but will change the eligibility criteria from the spring to focus on heavier vehicles From 1 April 2022, the threshold to claim the small truck grant of up to £16,000 will be increased from 3.5 tonnes to 4.25 tonnes.

Vans up to 4.25 tonnes will be able to claim the large van grant of up to £5,000.

The Department for Transport says this will ensure government targets support where it’s most needed, allowing for heavier and more costly trucks, up to 12 tonnes, to benefit from the higher grant funding.

Denise Beedell, Public Policy Manager at Logistics UK, comments: “Logistics UK is pleased that the Plug-in Van Grant will be

Image shows Fuso eCanter

Kickstarting the market extended to at least 2024/25; this certainty Last year, industry figures showed the will help to support business planning for van UK had the highest number of plug-in operators. Although the amount of individual electric vans sold in Europe and there grants payable per van over 3.5t has reduced were around four times as many grant from £16,000 to £5,000, this reclassification applications compared to 2020. within the grant thresholds means that Existing grants have supported operators purchasing alternatively the purchase of more than fuelled vans up to 4.25t will The 26,000 electric vans and now be eligible for up to change heavy goods vehicles one thousand plug-in s are to e (HGVs) across the UK van grants per year, n s u re the suppor since the programme instead of only 25 t is targ launched in 2012. E plug-in truck grants.” ete to

d whe needed re it’s most ,a heavier llowing for a costly t nd more rucks to benefit

April 2022 | COMMERCIAL GREENFLEET

67

NEW GOUPIL G6 100% ELECTRIC, ZERO EMISSIONS Building electric utility vehicles for over 25 years, the latest and the largest model in the range offers a generous payload of up to 1,050kg for the pick-up and an impressive 9m3 for the cage body. With a vast array of body options, the Goupil G6 is suitable for various business needs and applications whilst delivering environmental and sustainable operations. Designed to fulfil everyday tasks, the 100% electric G6 comes with a 28.8kWh lithium battery providing a 93-mile range.*

GOUPIL ELECTRIC LIGHT COMMERCIAL ROAD VEHICLES WWW.BRADSHAWEV.COM/GOUPIL-ROAD-VEHICLES ENQUIRIES@BRADSHAWEV.COM 01780 782 621 93-mile range measured in accordance with the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP)

*

 Transport Minister Trudy Harrison said: “As demand for electric vehicles continues to grow at speed, this extension to our grant scheme will allow tens of thousands more vans to be purchased, transporting goods in a way which is kinder to our environment.

This will support our vital, ongoing work to clean up our air in towns and cities right across the country and build back greener.”

Licence to drive electric vans As well as the extension to grant schemes, the government has also announced it will continue to allow drivers holding standard car driving licences to drive electric goods vans at a higher weight limit, up to 4.25 tonnes (compared to a 3.5 tonne limit for diesel vans).

This takes into account the additional weight of electric vehicle batteries and makes it easier for businesses and drivers to make the switch.

Denise Beedell, Public Policy Manager at Logistics UK, comments: “The derogation is seen by van operators as a vital measure to support the decarbonisation of the van fleet; it will give commercial vehicle operators confidence in investing in zero emission technology. This announcement also should encourage more training providers to offer the compulsory five-hour training course required to be fully compliant before driving using the derogation.”

Perfect timing The grant extension comes “at the perfect time” for the fleet industry, says BVRLA Director of Corporate Affairs, Toby Poston, as the industry struggles with rising operating costs and global shortage of electric vans.

He says: “The two-year extension on the grant will enable van operators to plan their fleet upgrades with greater confidence.

“This prolonged van grant was a key pillar of the ‘Van Plan’ that the BVRLA launched last year and we are delighted that the Government has responded to our campaign.

“The electric van market continues to lag behind the electric car market and next year was not the time to remove this vital grant.

Plug-in Grants

Sponsored by

As well as the extension to grant schemes, the government has announced it will continue to allow drivers holding standard car driving licences to drive electric goods vans at a higher weight limit, up to 4.25 tonnes, compared to 3.5 tonnes for diesels “As the funds available to support the transition to zero emission diminish, we support the Government’s pragmatic steps to focus on sectors that need the most help in the build up to the 2030 phase-out.”

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) also welcomed the news of the extension of the grant as a boost to the commercial vehicle market. Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said: “Extending the Plug-in Van Grant is welcome as it will encourage more operators to make the switch to electric vehicles over the next three years. Furthermore, the confirmation of the continuation of the current licensing regulations will make it easier to recruit drivers for the heaviest electric vans.

“While the van market saw record electric uptake last year, it remains some distance behind cars, with battery electric vans making up just 3.6% of new registrations.

The speed of uptake must be increased, therefore, which requires attractive incentives and significant investment in EV charge points especially those that meet the specific needs of commercial vehicles in every region of the UK.” Meanwhile, Jacob Roberts, Transport Policy Manager at the Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology (REA), said: “With the majority of vans being fuelled by diesel, transitioning to electric vans is essential, not only to decarbonise road transport, but to protect businesses against rising fuel costs and dependencies on imported fuels too.

“For this reason, we are delighted that the government has committed to extend the plug-in van grant for at least two years.

Combined with the expansion of funding available to support businesses to install charge points at their places of work, this will allow more businesses to access the benefits of zero-emission vans.”

Charging grants The government also offers a Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS), which is a voucherbased scheme that provides support towards the upfront costs of the purchase and installation of electric vehicle chargepoints.

The WCS is open to businesses, charities and public sector organisations that meet the applicant and site eligibility criteria.

The grant covers up to 75 per cent of the total costs of the purchase and installation of EV chargepoints, capped at a maximum of £350 per socket and covering up to 40 sockets across all sites per applicant. This means if you would like to install charge points in 40 sites, you will have one socket available per site.

Once the chargepoint have been installed, the authorised installer can claim the grant from OZEV on the applicant’s behalf.

The chargepoint installation must be completed and the voucher claimed within six months of the voucher’s issue date. L FURTHER INFORMATION tinyurl.com/3jyvtzmm

April 2022 | COMMERCIAL GREENFLEET

69

Advertisement Feature

E-cargo bikes: the future of urban transport Home delivery has increased dramatically over lockdown, and so too has consumer awareness around sustainable products and services. Cargo bikes offer fast and efficient transport, cutting emissions by around 90 per cent compared with the equivalent diesel powered vehicle Raleigh is one of the world’s oldest and best-known bike brands. Established in 1887 in Nottingham, England, we’re still based in our hometown abd are now one of the market leading manufacturers of electric bikes. But we haven’t forgotten our roots.

From Burners and Choppers to Grifters and Vektars, we’ve imagined and reimagined the world of cycling more times than we could possibly count. 130 years of dreaming, designing, building, riding. And, after all that time, we’ve come to the same conclusion we started with – we just love bikes.

Raleigh is part of Accell Group Raleigh is now part of the Accell Group, a European company that owns a wide range of bike brands throughout Europe. By partnering with Accell Group, we work with brands all over the world to share the latest knowledge and tech, giving us insider info that helps us make our bikes the best they can be, cargo bikes form a big part of this growth.

We’re on the cusp of an electric revolution and cargo bikes offer fast and efficient transport, cutting emissions by around 90 per cent compared with the equivalent diesel powered vehicle. Home delivery has increased dramatically over lockdown, so too has consumer awareness around sustainable products and services.

The cargo bike could be part of the solution to low impact urban mobility.

Previously used most often by delivery riders, new e-bike technology has seen recent demand for everyday family use grow across cities. With 68 per cent of journeys

in the UK under just five miles, e-cargo bikes offer a sustainable, time efficient and fun alternative for short trips like the school run or weekly shop.

Business bikes come in two models The Raleigh business bikes are available in two models; a small nimble two-wheeler with capacity for an 80kg payload and the larger three-wheeler with capacity for 100kg payload. The enclosed, lockable cases keep equipment, groceries and anything else you want to carry safe and dry and has been the choice of bike for many small businesses looking to diversify their fleet of cars and vans.

In a recent trail with Holkham Hall in Norfolk, Dave Pearson, Visitor Experience Team said: “The Bikes are a welcomed source of transport for us in Visitor Reception, they enable us to reach various destinations which we staff during the day, quickly, effortlessly and most importantly they greatly reduce our use of fossil based fuels. Thank you Raleigh.”

Both family cargo models come with a top of the range Bosch Performance CX Cargo Line motor. Purpose-built specifically for carrying heavy loads, the 500 watt Bosch Powerpack battery makes light work of any hills on your way home – even when stacked to the brim with the kids and shopping.

Whilst designed primarily for everyday use, the new Stride range is also perfect for small independent business owners looking to become more eco‑friendly (without burning the bank, or their legs).

Cargo bikes are increasingly used for delivering goods in record time, or moving tools around congested built-up cities.

Commenting on their new range of cargo bikes, Managing Director at Raleigh – Lee Kidger, said: “We are thrilled to unveil our new range of Stride E-Cargo bikes. Having worked closely with businesses in recent years to help them find greener, quicker and more enjoyable last mile solutions, we’re excited to create a bike that passes on all of these benefits to everybody.” L FURTHER INFORMATION www.raleigh.co.uk

70

DRIVING THE SWITCH TO CLEANER COMMERCIAL FLEETS | www.greenfleet.net/commercial

Cargo Bikes

Eliminating emissions from the last mile E-cargo bikes are a vital part of decarbonising the last mile of logistics. Recently, the Department for Transport topped up its E-Cargo Bike Grant Fund following the scheme’s success so far The government’s transport decarbonisation strategy says that the government is committed to transforming the last mile into an “efficient and sustainable delivery system”. Whether it’s new vehicles like e-cargo bikes or improvements to the logistics system, the strategy says this area is “ripe for innovation which offers other benefits on top of decarbonisation”.

E-Cargo bikes are growing in popularity as an alternative to ICE powered vehicles in urban centres. They do not produce any operational greenhouse gas emissions, with only small amounts of greenhouse gases produced when generating the electricity needed to power the battery.

Therefore, significant carbon savings can be made by operating e-cargo bikes compared to diesel vans.

an opportunity to introduce electric cargo bikes into their transport operations.

Initially made available across England on 30 July 2021, the eCargo Bike Grant Fund invited organisations to apply for 40 per cent of the total cost of an ecargo bike, with a maximum of £2,500 for two-wheel models and £4,500 for three-wheel models. Applicants were able Business use of e-cargo bikes to opt for up to five bikes per organisation There are many applications for e-cargo and were also able to submit joint ‘highbikes beyond parcel and post logistics. street’ applications for shared ecargo bikes.

Other sectors include food delivery, cleaning Due to the success of the fund, the and maintenance, and local store-toapplication portal closed on 8 October customer deliveries in retail.

2021 as the application threshold E-Cargo bikes typically suit was reached. An additional the transportation of small The £300,000 was then made and light goods, as they e c available to applicants do not have as large a bike fu argo n with applications capacity as a van. d , w hich subsidis already submitted on They work well in a of e-ca es the cost 3 November 2021. high-density network rgo del Tim Anderson, head with many stops ivery bikes fo of transport, Energy within a short distance, r s m busines Saving Trust, said: “It’s as this is the most ses, rec all motivating to see the profitable method, e i v e a d £300,0 success of the eCargo and while vehicles 0 Bike Grant Fund so far have a limited range, top-up 0 with many new ecargo bikes they can be parked easily. being purchased by businesses E-Cargo bikes also suit in England. We are confident that the time-critical deliveries, as small additional £300,000 funding pot has provided vehicles are less affected by congestion, more small businesses with the opportunity making them more reliable. They are also to make lasting changes to their last mile good for accessing congested or access deliveries and transporting their goods. restricted areas as ecargo bikes are cheaper “E-Cargo bikes are an attractive low to use in Clean Air Zones and easier to carbon transport option and offer impressive move around in pedestrianised zones. fuel cost savings, while contributing to improved local air quality, both of which Grants for e-cargo bikes are particularly critical as we continue to The Department for Transport’s national drive the low carbon transport agenda.” e-cargo bike fund, which subsidises the Cycling and walking minister Trudy Harrison cost of e-cargo delivery bikes for small added: “The eCargo Bike Grant Fund is a businesses, has received a £300,000 top-up wonderful initiative to support businesses in to build on the scheme’s success so far. the transition to more sustainable deliveries The fund, which has now closed, and our £300,000 top-up will allow even was extremely popular among small more businesses to make the switch.” businesses and sole traders, giving them

Scotland – eBike Business Loan Interest-free loans of up to £30,000 are available from Energy Saving Trust, funded

by Transport Scotland. The eBike Business Loan aims to support organisations that want to reduce the carbon impact of their transport and travel arrangements with new and more efficient alternatives and are available to help with the cost of purchase.

The loan covers new pedal-assisted electric bikes, up to £3,000 per bike; new cargo bikes, up to £6,000 per bike; and new adapted cycles.

If an organisation is replacing a car or van with a cargo or ecargo bike, there is no maximum limit per bike, within the maximum loan amount of £30,000.

Air quality Local authorities across England have been granted more than £11 million in government funding to deliver projects to improve air quality from the latest round of the government’s Air Quality Grants.

This money helps councils develop and implement measures to improve air quality, and include funding for cargo bikes.

The latest round of funding saw Colchester Borough Council win funding to develop an e-cargo bike delivery service made through a bespoke booking app so shoppers and visitors to Colchester Town Centre can book deliveries to their homes within a five mile radius or a nearby smart locker.

Meanwhile, Westminster City Council won funding for a project to move freight to London by river rather than road and continue ongoing deliveries through a fleet of zero emission electric vehicles, cargo bikes and walking. L FURTHER INFORMATION tinyurl.com/2p8wc2e6

April 2022 | COMMERCIAL GREENFLEET

71

Road Test

ROAD TEST

Vauxhall Vivaro-e Elite 3100 75kWh

Written by Richard Gooding

Winner of the GreenFleet 2021 LCV Manufacturer of the Year award, Vauxhall has completed its family of electric light commercial vehicles. Based on the popular Vivaro, Richard Gooding finds out how the zero-emission Vivaro-e stacks up What is it?

The Vivaro has been a staple of Vauxhall’s light commercial vehicle family for over 20 years, and has sold over one million examples.

Vauxhall is now owned by the vast Stellantis group, and the third generation of the British best-seller was introduced in 2019, based on the same EMP2 underpinnings as the Citroën Dispatch and Peugeot Expert, which combines modular passenger car and commercial vehicle chassis. Leveraging shared technologies, the electric Vivaro was introduced in 2020, employing a 100kW motor with a choice of either 50 or 75kWh batteries.

Vauxhall’s e-LCV family is the number oneselling electric light commercial range in the UK, the Vivaro-e securing big fleet orders from the likes of BT Openreach, British Gas, Mitie and Riverford Organics. The Vivaro-e was named ‘International Van of the Year’ in 2021, along with its other Stellantis stablemates.

How practical is it?

Three versions of the emission-free Vivaro-e are available, two panel vans, one crew van (the doublecab) and a platform cab. There is only one roof height, but two lengths that share the same 3,275mm wheelbase: the 4,959mm ‘L1’ and the 5,309mm ‘L2’. Height is 1,905mm, and width is 2,204mm, including door mirrors.

As the batteries are mounted under the floor, the electric Vivaros share the same cargo space as their diesel-engined relatives. L1 models can carry up to 5.3m3 or volume, the longer L2 versions able to hold 6.1m3. If the FlexCargo load-through bulkhead is fitted – standard on high-spec Elite models – those volumes increase to 5.8m3 and 6.6m3 respectively.

Payloads range from 987kg for the doublecab, to 1,226kg for the 50kWh entry level Vivaro-e,

72

topping out at 1,392kg for the L2-based platform cab with the same battery.

All panel vans have a maximum load height of 1,397mm, a maximum width of 1,636mm, and a maximum distance between the wheel arches of 1,258mm. Twin sliding side doors are standard, and a pair of rear doors open to 90 and 180 degrees. Fixed floor-mounted load restraint lashing eyes are provided, too; six on L1 models, and eight on L2 versions.

What range does it have?

Operators who choose the Vivaro-e have a choice of either 50kWh or 75kWh batteries.

For the 50kWh version, Vauxhall quotes a single charge, WLTP test cycle distance of up to 133 miles. This increases to a distance of up to 196 miles for the 75kWh model, depending on the model chosen.

How long does it take to charge?

All electric Vivaros support 100kW DC charging. A fast charger will refill the 50kWh battery from 15 to 80 per cent capacity in 30 minutes, the larger capacity battery taking another 15 minutes. A single-phase 7.4kW on-board charger is standard, but operators can opt for an optional three-phase 11kW unit.

On a 7kW AC connection or wallbox, a full recharge takes around 11 hours.

How does it drive?

Externally, only the ‘Vivaro-e’ badge on the nearside back door and the charging flap on the nearside front wing give the electric game away. Otherwise, it’s business as usual for the mid-sized Vauxhall LCV. And that’s no bad thing. Sharing its basic outline with its Stellantis relatives, as vans go the Vivaro-e is handsome, with contoured wheel arches, a lower grille ‘smile’, and embossed tail lights.

DRIVING THE SWITCH TO CLEANER COMMERCIAL FLEETS | www.greenfleet.net/commercial

Elite-spec models gain colour-coded bumpers, too, which adds to the smart look.

Inside, the relationship to its siblings is a little more obvious, but again, a proven design and components mean there’s little to gripe about.

The seven-inch colour touchscreen is clear and works well. Steering wheel buttons for volume and phone functions bring car-like comfort, and physical controls for the air conditioning mean no prodding into touchscreen menus.

Cabin storage is generous, with drink cubbies on top of the dashboard, while in-dash slots can hold additional odds and ends. A large, lidded compartment on the dash top is a very useful space.

All versions of the Vivaro-e are powered by a 100kW electric motor, and the electric Vauxhall LCV isn’t found wanting for pace. With 192lb ft/260Nm of torque – noticeably more than the Volkswagen e-Transporter 6.1 – the Vivaro-e feels plenty fast enough for dicing with innercity traffic. Light and crisp steering allows the van to be placed easily on the road, and at higher speeds, refinement is as good as it is at lower ones, the hushed cruising made possible by the removal of a diesel engine.

A choice of three modes allow for a tailored driving experience. ‘Eco’ limits power to 78bhp for maximum range and efficiency, deactivating any unnecessary energy-consuming features, and reducing the 81mph top speed, torque and overall performance. ‘Normal’ mode offers 104bhp for a compromise between efficiency and performance, while ‘Power’ gives the full 134bhp. An additional regenerative braking ‘B’ mode for the gear selector increases braking resistance and puts more energy back into the battery, even when the van is coasting after the accelerator has been released.

What does it cost?

The UK government’s Plug-in Van Grant (PiVG) will contribute 35 per cent of the purchase price on all electric Vivaros, up to a maximum of £5,000. The Vivaro-e range starts at £32,228.33 ‘on-the-road’ excluding VAT with the PiVG deducted for the entry level Dyanmic panel van.

Standard equipment includes automatic lights and wipers, cruise control with speed limiter, front fog lamps, a seven-inch colour touchscreen, and 16-inch steel wheels. To aid practicality, rear parking sensors, as well as nearside and offside sliding side-access doors are fitted.

The £38,403.33 Vivaro Elite (as tested here) looks smarter with its 17-inch alloy wheels, body coloured bumpers and LED daytime running lights, and also adds an alarm, electrically folding door mirrors, a FlexCargo load-through bulkhead, front and rear parking sensors, a navigation system, as well as a six-way adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar adjustment and armrest.

In addition, crew double-cab versions include three individual rear seats, a full-height ABS plastic bulkhead with window and front passenger curtain and side-impact airbags.

Prices for the crew cab Vivaro-e begin at £42,078.33.

Why does my fleet need one?

The electric Vivaro-e’s car-derived underpinnings gives it a level of driving comfort and usability which will suit fleets and those looking for maneuverability, refinement and a general ease of operation. The fact that the battery doesn’t impede the cargo volume is another bonus.

Suiting the recently enlarged London Ultra Low Emission Zone and other imminent Clean Air Zones, the Vivaro-e keeps downtime to a minimum with its fast-charging capability, while an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty on battery and electric powertrain components should give operators added peace of mind. L

Road Test

Loading up with e-LCVS

The winner of the 2021 GreenFleet LCV Manufacturer of the Year award, Vauxhall now offers electric versions of its complete light commercial vehicle range.

The Combo-e panel and crew vans are the brand’s entry point, the small LCVs capable of carrying up to 800kg in payload, with a range of up to 171 miles from a 50kWh battery.

The Vivaro-e sits right in the middle of Vauxhall’s electric LCV family, and will be boosted with another zeroemission variant in 2023, when the Vivaro-e Hydrogen version is launched.

Its driving range of up to 249 miles is obtained by the use of a hydrogen fuel cell. As practical as other zeroemission Vivaros, it will have a payload of up to 1,100kg and a cargo volume of 6.1m3.

The bigger Movano-e is the largest model on offer. With a single-charge distance of up to 139 miles from its 70kWh battery, maximum payload is 1,150kg on the long-wheelbase L4 models.

FURTHER INFORMATION www.vauxhall.co.uk/vans/ commercial-vehicles.html Vauxhall Vivaro-e Elite 3100 75kWh

GROSS PAYLOAD:

987kg

LOAD VOLUME:

4.0m3

ENGINE:

134bhp/100kW synchronous electric motor/

75kWh lithium-ion battery pack CO2: RANGE (WLTP): VED: PRICE (OTR, ex VAT, inc PiVG):

0g/km 205 miles £0 £38,403.33

April 2022 | COMMERCIAL GREENFLEET

73

Scarab’s technology supports customers amidst red diesel price increase

For over four decades, Scarab Sweepers has been a global leader in the design and manufacture of truck-mounted road sweepers for municipal, highway and offhighway applications. The company offers a wide range of truck-mounted sweeping solutions, which come in a variety of body sizes and drive types, to help customers achieve exceptional cleansing results in some of the world’s toughest environments.

Scarab has been promoting the environmental benefits of our single-engine technology for over 30 years and now, with many concerned by the change in legislation surrounding red diesel, are primed to support operators as they transition away from twin-

engine machines. Scarab first pioneered the single-engine road sweeper in the 1980s and has continued to deliver our expertise at the sharp end of the industry ever since. Our single-engine machines are lighter, provide a greater payload, produce reduced engine emissions and, crucially, consume less fuel than comparative twin-engine machines.

Though recognising that the future of the industry lies in alternative fuel solutions with the increasing focus on zero emissions, Scarab believes that there has never been a more important time than now to make the switch to single-engine machines to help customers reduce emissions and costs immediately.

“In light of the recent government

IT'S TIME TO MAKE THE SWITCH TO SINGLE ENGINE. DISCOVER THE SCARAB ADVANTAGE >

74

DRIVING THE SWITCH TO CLEANER COMMERCIAL FLEETS | www.greenfleet.net/commercial

announcement on the removal of duty on red diesel, our strategy to support customers in transitioning from a twin-engine to a single-engine platform has never been more crucial”, Scarab’s Manager of Marketing and Product Development, Gary Kelleher, explains.

“While our single-engine machines have always offered a number of benefits including decreased noise and engine emissions, less weight, greater payload and reduced maintenance, the advantage of our singleengine machines offering reduced fuel consumption, compared to twin-engine alternatives, will result in significant fuel cost savings for fleet managers and operators.”

Scarab, who combined with sister companies Mathieu and Ravo form the Fayat Environmental Solutions group, offer and continue to develop classleading electrified and other alternative fuel solutions, from compact and midsize, through to large capacity specialist application truck mounted sweepers. L FURTHER INFORMATION www.scarab-sweepers.com

Red Diesel

Changes to permitted use of red diesel From April 1, red diesel and other rebated biofuels will no longer be allowed to be used as they are currently and will only be legal for a small number of sectors. We look at the changes and how some industries are calling for a delay to the policy From 1 April 2022, rebated fuels such as red diesel are no longer permitted for most industry sectors, as part of the government’s efforts to meet climate change and air quality targets.

Red diesel is diesel used mainly for offroad purposes, such as to power bulldozers and cranes used in the construction industry, or to power drills for oil extraction. It accounts for around 15 per cent of all the diesel used in the UK and is responsible for the production of nearly 14 million tonnes of carbon dioxide a year.

Red diesel used in the construction and infrastructure building sectors was also estimated to have caused seven per cent of nitrogen oxide emissions and eight per cent of PM10 emissions in London in 2018.

To address this, the government announced in its 2020 Budget that it would remove the entitlement to use red diesel and rebated biodiesel from most sectors from April 2022.

The tax changes will ensure that most users of red diesel use fuel taxed at the standard rate for diesel from April 2022, like motorists, which the government says more fairly reflects the harmful impact of the emissions they produce.

The government also said that removing most red diesel entitlements will also help to ensure that the tax system incentivises industries to improve the energy efficiency of their vehicles and machinery, invest in cleaner alternatives, or just use less fuel.

The changes From 1 April 2022, red diesel and other rebated biofuels will no longer be allowed to be used as they are currently. Instead they will only be able to be used for specific purposes and when using certain allowed machines, vehicles, vessels and appliances.

The rebated fuels affected by these changes are rebated diesel, rebated Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), rebated biodiesel and bioblend, kerosene taxed at the rebated diesel rate, and fuel substitutes.

HVO is a liquid hydrocarbon which is classified for excise purposes as heavy oil and treated the same as diesel.

Fully rebated kerosene is unaffected by these changes and can be used for all heating uses.

While the REA strongly supports the transition to sustainable and renewable fuels, they say that removing the organics recycling sector’s entitlement to use red diesel at this time would add an unacceptable and unaffordable financial Who can use rebated fuels? burden on to businesses that are already Agriculture, horticulture, fish farming, and facing increased costs due to HGV driver forestry industries can continue to use rebated shortages, energy prices rises (which are fuel in vehicles, machines and appliances for set to increase even further), and accepted uses. Registered community the need to meet increasing amateur sports clubs, golf courses environmental standards. and driving ranges can also Red die Until there is a viable use the rebated fuel in alternative to diesel in certain cases, as can accoun sel ts for the organics recycling travelling fairs and around 15 per industry, the REA and circuses and some cases cent of diese its members are calling in sailing, boating and UK and l use in the on the government to marine transport. is respo postpone the proposed The fuel can be used n for nea rly 14 m sible change to red diesel in vehicles for the illion tonnes policy for five years use of cutting trees, of carbo until 2027, to enable the verges and hedges d io x id e a year n development alternativethat border public roads fuelled vehicles and and clearing or otherwise machinery and clear guidance dealing with frost, ice, snow on the permitted use of red diesel. (this includes gritting), or flooding.

Jenny Grant, Head of Organics Examples of agricultural vehicles are and Natural Capital at the Association for tractors, or single seat, light vehicles, designed Renewable Energy and Clean Technology and constructed mainly for off-road use. Other (REA), said: “While we strongly support the special vehicles can be used in permitted transition to sustainable and renewable industries, and include digging machines, fuels, removing the organics recycling mobile cranes, mobile pumping vehicles, work sector’s entitlement to use red diesel at trucks, and road rollers. Mowing machines this time would add an unacceptable can use rebated fuel in certain cases. and unaffordable financial burden on businesses which are already facing a The waste sector perfect storm of worsening cost pressures.

The Association for Renewable Energy “We have been in constant contact with and Clean Technology (REA) is urging the our members who are warning about the government to postpone the proposed impact this change would have on their changes to red diesel policy for five years business. Businesses are facing incredibly until 2027. It says the waste sector is set difficult decisions, with many saying to lose the entitlement to use rebated fuel, they will have to make redundancies which will dramatically increase costs to or even cease trading entirely. businesses whilst simultaneously failing to “That is why we are urging the Government deliver the intended environmental benefits. to delay the proposed reform to red diesel The policy will also create unfair competition policy for five years until 2027 to enable - agriculture and horticulture sectors remain the development of viable alternativeeligible for red diesel - meaning some onfuelled vehicles and machinery. The farm AD and composting sites will be able Government must postpone this change to charge lower gate fees for accepting - jobs and businesses are on the line.” L waste than off-farm sites who cannot.

Biodiesel, bioblend and fuel substitutes are already subject to fuel duty when they’re set aside to be used in engines, motors and machines.

April 2022 | COMMERCIAL GREENFLEET

75

Advertisement Feature

Keeping up with the pace of change As the 2030 ban on new sales of pure-ICE vehicles looms ever nearer, fleet operators have more choice than ever for zero-emission vehicle solutions. This May will present an ‘opportunity to sample’ at ITT Hub, 11-12 May, Farnborough International It’s no longer ‘if’ but ‘when’ as a combination of Government legislation, clean air zones and customer pressure means that the move to zero-emission vehicles is gathering pace.

Already, some petrol and diesel-only versions of vans and cars have been dropped as manufacturers switch production to zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) while anticipating falling demand.

In the last 12 months the industry has begun making conscious changes, which has seen a raft of new model announcements in all van sectors and, while there’s not yet a full range from every manufacturer, there is no doubt about the direction of travel.

The best way to understand more about what’s on offer and, importantly, how it will suit your business is first-hand experience.

Providing this unique opportunity is the Innovation and Technology in Transport Hub (ITT Hub), taking place 11-12 May 2022.

Staged at Farnborough International’s impressive purpose-built exhibition centre, just off the M25 in Hampshire, the quality free-to-attend event is leading the sector on this important topic.

You’re in charge Uniquely, ITT Hub offers the chance for ride-and-drive experiences on public roads as part of the two-day event.

Those with an appropriate driving licence can get behind the wheel of a variety of vehicles on a test route that starts from the heart of the exhibition and includes a selection of local roads.

With a number of new models being launched by manufacturers, it’s expected that the more than 100 vehicles on site will include some ‘reveals’, as well as latest updates.

76

Thought-provoking conference While vehicles are at the heart of green fleets, there’s much more to it than that. One of the big debating points is which technology to choose. Helping you to navigate this journey is the two-day Future Logistics conference.

Organised by Logistics UK, the free-toattend conference will address the key challenges facing our industry today and tomorrow, delivered by thought-leaders, innovators and inspirational business minds.

Opening the conference with a keynote speech will be world-renowned space scientist Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock MBE. Maggie will bring her experience of truly innovative solutions to issues that have

DRIVING THE SWITCH TO CLEANER COMMERCIAL FLEETS | www.greenfleet.net/commercial

been tested in space and will help our industry to re-evaluate the opportunities presented by decarbonisation.

Alongside a line-up of thought leaders and inspirational business minds, her keynote will set the tone for two days of lively debate that will help attendees address the challenges our industry faces in the coming decades.

The programme brings you a stellar line up of some of the most influential and knowledgeable professionals from organisations including National Grid, Zemo Partnership, Zenobe, Renault Trucks, Volvo Trucks, Iveco and Zenzic, giving you real insight into what you need to do to plan your future business.

The nine sessions cover major hot topics, answering key questions such as ‘when is the right time to make the switch to electric vans?’.

Another subject being tackled is a buyers’ guide to new fuel investment. The session asks what are key criteria you need to consider on your journey to net zero, and the potential pitfalls to watch out for? Keynote speaker Tim Campbell will use real world practical examples in his guide to investing in new fuels.

Moving to larger vehicles ‘HGV: The Future for Gas and the future for batteryelectric’ are separate sessions considering each in turn. For each, the panel will consider the options for investment in low carbon fuels, what is gas power or batteryelectric most appropriate for, total cost of ownership, how to fund investment, how mature is the refuelling/charging infrastructure, differences between hydrogen

Advertisement Feature

and biomethane, range considerations, speed of refuelling and upfront costs for local infrastructure investment.

Other topics in the conference include the future for autonomous last-mile deliveries, the future for freight – with senior speakers from government – and future-proofing the supply chain.

Inspirational exhibition The indoor exhibition hall hosts the conference and topical feature Hubs, including the newest addition to the show, the Cold Chain Hub by TCS&D, as well as the Energy Theatre Hub, Talent Hub, EV Café, Future Van Hub and Government Hub. For anyone involved in cold and chilled transport the Cold Chain Hub is a must-visit initiative. Innovations are being brought to market to tackle the challenge posed by the removal of red diesel from refer’ units from April, and how to deal with chilled transport in a zero-emission environment.

Companies participating include Thermo King, Chereau & SOR, CoolKit, Gray & Adams, Carrier Transicold, Prohire, ABC Trailer Solutions, Longhurst Refrigeration, SSI Schaefer, Petit Forestier, and Smart Graphics.

beyond. Sit, watch and listen over a cuppa to some of the current industry thinking.

As the industry seeks to “Professionalise the Profession”, inspiring, developing and retaining people is key to a successful business.

The event’s Talent Hub hosts daily presentations from key industry representatives, with leading experts on the stand each day for one-to-one advice, alongside companies involved with training and developing the workforce.

Industry experts will be on hand each day to advise, inspire and guide you to next steps with examples of case study and success stories through a series of 20-minute informal speaker sessions and Q&As. The Energy Hub Theatre in the heart of the event is the place where debate and discussion on transport issues will have energy running through the heart of them. Each day, three panel discussions with transport industry guests cover the latest topics affecting energy and infrastructure, including daily

‘distribution sessions’ from National Grid and Western Power Distribution.

All sectors covered Over 100 exhibitors across the vehicles, warehouse, fleet management, software, safety, and compliance sectors are expected this year, including DAF Trucks, Renault Trucks, Volta Trucks, Ford, Harris Maxus, TRAILAR, Schmitz Cargobull, Tachosys, TruTac, TyreWatch to DiscLock, Air Products and Argent Energy.

Supported by commercial partners, National Grid, Western Power Distribution (WPD), Zenobē, Lloyds Bank and Lex Autolease, ITT Hub is gearing up for a bigger and even more innovative two days of networking, knowledge sharing and insight.

The high-quality event and conference are free-to-attend. On site car parking is free and there are convenient rail and air links. L FURTHER INFORMATION itthub.co.uk

Innovative event The EV Café is an online community that comes together every month to talk EV and low-emission transport. At ITT Hub, The EV Cafe comes alive, with the team hosting a series of lively discussions throughout the day with a range of guests, who will debate and challenge all things EV and

April 2022 | COMMERCIAL GREENFLEET

77

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR YOUR FREE SUBSCRIPTION AND TO RECEIVE THE LATEST ISSUE AND NEWSLETTER DIRECT TO YOUR INBOX

WWW.GREENFLEET.NET

ADVERTISERS INDEX The publishers accept no responsibility for errors or omissions in this free service bp Chargemaster Bradshaw Electric Vehicles Clayton Power DAF Trucks Driveline Emissions Eon Farnborough International Fiat Grosvenor Contracts Leasing Harris MAXUS JustPark Parking Leaseplan UK LEVC Locks 4 Vans Magtec Systems Technology Parksafe Automotive Peugeot Rayleigh UK Scarab Sweepers The AA The Algorithm People Totalkare Heavy Duty Tusker Direct TVL Security Webfleet Solutions

78

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

OBC 68 56 66 64 32,34,40 IBC IFC,16 35,44 52,57 30,31 36 18,50 54 60 61 4 70 74 10,42 38 58 21-23 58 25-27

Ready for your business olution? bp pulse is here to help you make the switch to electric vehicles.

With over 8,000 public charge points, dedicated fleet charging hubs, and workplace charging, you’ll have the tools you need to power your journey.

Begin your EV journey, search www.bppulse.co.uk/charging-for-business