GreenFleet 158

DRIVING THE SWITCH TO CLEANER FLEETS

STARTING YOUR EV JOURNEY

Practical advice on getting your fleet electrification plans off the ground, including funding schemes, workplace charging, preparing drivers, and more

Fleet Dash Cam Solutions

Adopted by companies such as Iceland Foods, the award-winning RH600 combines all the benefits of telematics with video and photo evidence of road traffic incidents.

Results From Our RH600 Customers

What sets the RH600 apart from other vehicle camera solutions is that it goes beyond simple GPS location data. The RH600 comprises the same technology as our most sophisticated telematics unit, affording fleet managers a multi-functional system with all of the intuitive, rich dataharnessing functionality they have come to expect from Trakm8.

All video footage is encrypted and stored internally. Video files can then be uploaded to the cloud for easy retrieval. Choose from 128GB or 256GB.

It allows us to know where the vans are, where they should be and to assess the performance of the vans and the drivers in a single system.

Jonathan Melia, Head of Delivered Sales, Iceland Foods

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Kylie Glover To register for GREENFLEET updates, go to www.greenfleet.net/greenfleet-registration or contact Public Sector Information, 226 High Road, Loughton, Essex IG10 1ET. Tel: 020 8532 0055

Freya Courtney PUBLISHER George Petrou

Paul Hollick, chair, Association of Fleet Professionals

The AFP’s Paul Hollick

VED changes could see extra £2,490 per electric car

New Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) charges on electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) take effect this month that will see fleet liabilities on some widely adopted models rise from zero to £2,490* over a five-year period.

First year VED rates are being increased from zero to £10 for EVs and from zero to £110 for PHEVs emitting between 1-50g/ km of CO2. Second year rates have risen more dramatically for EVs – from zero to £195. Also, EVs that are registered from 1 April are now also liable for additional rate VED for all vehicles costing more than £40,000, which will be £425 for each of the second to the fifth years of the car’s life. Feedback we are receiving is that many fleets simply haven’t appreciated and accounted for these increases, which are substantial when applied across entire fleets operating dozens, hundreds or thousands of EVs and PHEVs. From April onwards, they’ll be receiving bills from the DVLA or shortfall invoices from their leasing supplier, and many won’t have factored them into their running costs.

Taken together, these increases represent a major jump in costs for EVs. Essentially, what we are now seeing is the start of a move by the government... to normalise VED for EVs as they grow in numbers, and the removal of low or zero rates that were designed to encourage early adoption. In one sense this is good – it’s a sign that EVs are becoming widely accepted – but it does mean substantially higher rates at a point in time when fleet budgets are under pressure.

*£10 VED in the first year, followed by four years of £195 VED and £425 of additional tax.

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Best month ever for BEV registrations in March 2025

Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) sales in March 2025 rose a massive 43.2 per cent, the SMMT has reported, making March the largest month ever for registrations of electric cars.

69,313 new cars reached the road as manufacturers delivered more zero emission vehicles to drivers during the new ‘25 plate’ month, which usually accounts for around 16% of annual registrations and, as such, provides a strong indicator of likely overall annual performance.

Meanwhile, hybrid electric vehicles and plug in hybrids rose too - 27.7 per cent and 37.9 per cent respectively.

While EV market share improved significantly on March 2024, at 19.4 per cent it remains more than eight percentage points behind targets set by the ZEV Mandate.

Furthermore, given the VED Expensive Car Supplement can now apply to eligible new EVs from 1 April, the SMMT highlights that the March EV performance will have been boosted by buyers seeking to get ahead of the taxation increase. This underscores the challenge facing manufacturers whose 2025 EV sales must accelerate to 28 per cent share over the course of the year.

The SMMT says that manufacturer incentives cost the industry some £4.5 billion last year. Investment in product development is also bringing ever greater choice to consumers, with more than 130 EV models now available across every size category, and average range now reaching above 290 miles – more than double the average weekly mileage. Year to...

Tarmac launches scheme enabling trials of electric concrete mixers SPECIALIST VEHICLES

Tarmac has announced the launch of its eMixer Discovery Programme following the introduction of five additional electric mixers to its fleet. The programme will offer supply chain partners the ability to lease an electric mixer to experience its performance.

The scheme follows Tarmac’s pioneering work in 2022, when it introduced the first fully electric concrete mixer in the UK, working with Renault Trucks and TVS Interfleet.

The new electric concrete mixers offer a low-risk opportunity to experience firsthand the benefits of electrification in real word application. Through this programme, supply chain partners can lease an electric truck for a six-month period, enabling them to evaluate the vehicles’ performance in their operation before committing to a long-term investment.

Ben Garner, head of logistics at Tarmac, commented: “Tarmac is leading the way in sustainable innovation within the construction industry. The launch of our eMixer Programme is an exciting step towards making the shift to zero-emission vehicles smoother and more accessible for our suppliers. Our “try before you buy” model allows our partners to de-risk their initial transition to electrification.”

Costin at Concrete Haulage Limited, who are operating the first new electric mixer truck at Tarmac’s Kings Cross site, added: “At Concrete Haulage, we’re proud to be partnering with Tarmac to take a major step forward in sustainable transport. Operating this electric mixer is an exciting opportunity for us to work with Tarmac to build the future of transport in our sector in a way that works for our drivers and our customers.”

I’m excited to take on the leadership of Zemo Partnership at a critical time in the transition to decarbonised transport. The power sector has decarbonised rapidly over the last decade, leaving the transport sector as the largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in the UK. While we can see most of the technology pathways, along with demand side measures, that can get us to our ultimate net zero transport destination, there are still many challenges and barriers to negotiate.

Zemo is an impartial, evidence-based, not-for-profit organisation. We don’t have any technology ‘dog in the race’ so our guidance to policymakers is rooted in the evidence, provided via a thorough review of the best available information and complemented by detailed, in-depth consultation with our expert members.

I believe we’re unique because of our unbiased viewpoint and through the breadth of perspectives provided by our membership, as well as the depth of expertise that we can call upon to inform our recommendations.

Zemo’s strategic direction is determined by our Board, and informed by the independent Council for Net Zero Transport , chaired by Lord Deben, which Zemo convenes, and by our Members Council, which ensures that the discussions held within our working groups are properly represented.

Under my leadership, Zemo will be building on all these strengths as well as our reputation as a leading voice in the transport decarbonisation space in the UK for well over twenty years...

Jonathan Murray, acting managing director, Zemo Partnership

DPD begins road trial of electric HGV

Parcel delivery company DPD is conducting a trial of a MAN electric HGV, with the hope of rolling out heavy-duty electric trucks later this year.

The MAN eTGX has a range of up to 497 miles and a charging capacity of up to 750 kW. It will be based at DPD’s Hinckley hub four before a full induction, training, and being assigned a route for operational testing.

This follows DPD’s work converting the majority of its 1,600 HGVs to Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil (HVO) in 2023. Ninety-five per cent of DPD’s HGV fleet is now running on HVO, reducing emissions by 83 per cent compared to diesel.

DPD has operated double-decker trailers for a while, which although do reduce emissions through fewer vehicles being on the road, transitioning to electric trucks is a challenge. Consequently, DPD is working with MAN to develop a configuration capable of pulling double-decker trailers and the first vehicle with that spec will bet test with DPD later this year.

As part of Geopost, DPD UK has a net zero target of 2040, which is fully validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). DPD UK has confirmed that the UK operation is on track with the trajectory required to meet the group target, after delivering a 47.5 reduction in overall emissions at the end of 2024, compared to the 2020 benchmark.

SECOND-HAND EVS

Industry calls for used-EV market support to enable green transition

The BVRLA is coordinating calls from a host of fleet operators, vehicle rental, leasing companies, and trade bodies, for the government to support the used market, warning that without support, it will stop the zero-emission transition in its tracks. Writing to the Transport, Environmental Audit and Business Select Committees, signatories are calling for measures that support household and SME access to electric vehicles, and mitigate the volatile residual values denting market confidence.

Registrations of new battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are on an upward trajectory, led by the fleet and leasing sectors and pushed by the Government’s Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate. The size of the new market (≈2m annually) is dwarfed by that of the used market (≈7m annually), although current support measures focus entirely on pockets of new registrations. The terms of the Mandate increase the proportion of new car and van sales that are for zero-emission vehicles each year, with all those vehicles set to reach the used market in the months and years ahead. While most new vehicles are bought by businesses, the majority of UK consumers only buy on the used market. Those buyers currently have no support to make the shift to BEVs, creating a chasm between supply, due to increase by 178 per cent by 2028, and demand. This gap has put values of secondhand BEVs under pressure, seeing them fall 50 per cent over the last two years and forecast to fall a further 28 per cent by 2030. This leaves...

Drone and air taxi technologies get funding boost

Over £20 million government funding has been announced for new flight technologies, such as drone services at a commercial scale and flying taxis.

The funding will be divided between the CAA, receiving £16.5 million in 2025 to 2026, to deliver a regulatory programme to enable drones to fly beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) and progress toward routine use of air taxis (eVTOLs) in UK skies.

This includes publishing a piloted eVTOL ‘roadmap’, development of ‘drone pathways’ for industry to follow and consulting on concept of operations for uncrewed traffic management (UTM) and Detect and Avoid (DAA) technology. This will make it quicker and easier for industry to prove the safety of these new technologies, deliver the necessary digital infrastructure and make sure that people, property and other aviation remain safe and secure when these new technologies fly in UK skies.

In addition, the Future Flight Challenge will receive up to £5 million from DfT and Innovate UK, to support industry to turn these new technologies into profitable business that benefits communities and support growth. This will include regional demonstrations and supporting development of commercial drone and air taxi solutions.

The new funding will unlock barriers to growth and maximise opportunities for better and cheaper public services while cutting carbon emissions. It is designed to advance...

Green incentives need greater focus on commercial fleets

The government has announced changes to the Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate and while businesses will welcome the clarity from the confirmation that petrol and diesel vans can be sold alongside full hybrid and plug-in hybrid vans until 2035, the changes do not address the practicalities of incorporating electric vans into commercial fleets.

Commercial vehicles are acquired and used in a significantly different way to cars, and zero tailpipe emission vans must be commercially and operationally viable before an operator will be able to incorporate them into their business.

Central to this is a comprehensive charging network, and we continue to urge the government to ensure the energy infrastructure is delivered at the pace the sector requires to maintain the nation’s supply chains while meeting net-zero goals. While public charging infrastructure is growing, the focus has been on private car users; vans often cannot use the charge points that have been installed. To address this, we are calling on government to work with businesses to create an electric charging and refuelling infrastructure roadmap that is suitable for logistics vehicles. This should be backed by clear guidance and incentives for local authorities to install the infrastructure that is needed in local areas.

When the current lack of public charging is coupled with the excessive time and cost of installing depot charging infrastructure, it is clear why businesses are delaying adoption of zero tailpipe emission vans until they are certain they will be able to operate fleets in a commercially and operationally...

www.logistics.org.uk

FLIGHT TECHNOLOGY Michelle Gardner, deputy director – policy, Logistics UK

Logistics UK’s Michelle Gardner

Over two million public charging sessions take place each month

Data from Zapmap has revealed that over two million successful electric vehicle charging sessions are now taking place on the public network each month, with nearly 60 per cent of these on rapid or ultra-rapid chargers.

Zapmap is able to take advantage of open data opportunities brought about by Public Charge Point Regulations. By collating and analysing status data provided by charge point operators (CPOs) for each charge point in their network via the Open Charge Point Interface (OCPI), Zapmap tracks the time each UK public charge point spends in use.

Zapmap utilisation data shows that the busiest day for the public charging network in 2024 fell on 23rd December, which saw 104,215 charging events, while the quietest day for the network was the 25th December, with 33,250 charges. The peak summer travel day, with 66,621 charging events, fell on 2nd August, the first Friday after the majority of schools in England broke up for the summer holidays. A thorough understanding of utilisation rates can be used by CPOs and other industry players to enhance strategic planning, improve operational efficiency and optimise the customer experience.

Tracking and analysing utilisation rates at its sites enable GRIDSERVE to anticipate needs and strengthen key en-route sites as demand ramps up. Its Exeter Electric Super Hub is consistently the busiest charging site in the country. With the number of sessions per day in the hundreds across the site as a whole during June–August 2023, the CPO was able to respond to growing...

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Certas Energy launches HVO tank hire solution: READ MORE

CHARGING INFRASTRUCTURE

Work begins on EV charging hub at Port of Tilbury

Construction has begun on a dedicated commercial vehicle electric charging hub at the Port of Tilbury, with completion targeted for December 2025.

The project, to be installed by Fleete, is the first works funded by the UK Government under the Thames Freeport seed capital programme, which advances clean energy technology crucial to the Port of Tilbury’s drive toward net zero emissions.

The £1 million in Freeport seed capital funding awarded to Fleete supports the development of a 5 megawatt (MW) electric commercial vehicle charging station with 16 rapid chargers that can serve up to 16 electric heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) at once.

Serving as a vital ‘clean fuel’ charging point along the A13 corridor into London, the new facility will meet rising traffic demands from major developments within the Thames Freeport programme.

The largest of the Thames ports, the Port of Tilbury is a key location for major transportation and logistics operations with over 10,000 vehicle movements at port every day. With over 60 companies with commercial vehicle fleets registered as tenants at the port, including major hauliers and container transporters, the demand for sustainable transport solutions is more urgent than ever...

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FURTHER INFORMATION

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Extended EV and charging grants summarised

The government has recently confirmed an extension to grants for certain plug-in vehicles and workplace charging. So what’s available?

Last year saw a record number of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) sold, making up 19.6 per cent of the market, up by more than a fifth from 2023, according to the SMMT.

The positive news continued in a recent report from Jato Dynamics, which shows the price difference between battery electric vehicles and internal combustion engined models in the UK has fallen from 51 per cent in 2018 to 18 per cent in 2024. This was caused by declining prices of BEVs of 11 per cent and rising prices for ICE vehicles of 14 per cent.

Although the prices of EVs are getting closer to those of petrol or diesel vehicles, the upfront cost of an electric vehicle is still seen as a barrier for many fleets. And installing complex workplace charging can be costly, especially if you have to get a grid connection upgrade.

It was welcome news, therefore, that the government has recently announced that its Workplace Charging Scheme has been extended for another year, as have grants for plug-in vans, trucks, taxis, motorbikes and wheelchair accessible vehicles.

The Workplace Charging Scheme

Now ending 31 March 2026, the Workplace Charging Scheme provides support for organisations towards the cost of installing electric vehicle chargepoint sockets at their sites.

The Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS) is open to businesses, charities, public sector organisations and small accommodation businesses, such as hotels or campsites.

The grant covers up to 75 per cent of the total costs of the purchase and installation E

F of EV chargepoints and is capped at a maximum of £350 per sockets and 40 sockets across all sites per applicant.

Applicants must have dedicated offroad parking that is clearly associated with the premises, or permission from the landowner if they don’t own it. Applicants should have their site surveyed by an installer before applying for the grant.

Organisations must provide evidence that the parking is for their staff or fleet, not for customer use, and there must be parking spaces that are suitable for chargepoint installations. All chargepoint parking must be designated to the applicant, although the rest of the car park may be shared with other organisations.

If a public authority, charity or small accommodation business is applying, there is no restriction on who may use the parking – customers, guests, visitors, staff or others.

If it’s a business, the chargepoints can only be used by its staff/fleets. However, they can allow local residents to use the facilities outside of office hours.

And it’s important to note that if you make the electric vehicle chargepoints available

The government has extended its grants for electric vans, trucks, taxis, motorbikes, and wheelchair accessible vehicles

for use by the public, they must comply with the Public Chargepoint Regulations 2023 and associated guidance.

There is also a specific grant for schools. Launched last year, the Workplace Charging Scheme for state-funded education institutions has funding confirmed for another year. State-funded education settings, including schools, colleges, nurseries and academies, can apply for the grant which provides up to 75 per cent of the cost to buy and install chargepoints, up to £2,500 per socket and at a maximum of 40 sockets across all sites. This includes any applications made previously through the Workplace Charging Scheme. Independent schools are not eligible for this grant but can apply for funding through the Workplace Charging Scheme.

EV infrastructure grant

The EV infrastructure grant for staff and fleets has also been extended until 31 March 2026. It is available for small-to-medium-sized businesses in the UK with 249 employees or less. It can help cover the cost of wider building and installation work, such as wiring and posts, that’s needed to install multiple chargepoint sockets. The work can be for sockets that are to be installed now and in the future.

The funding covers up to 75 per cent of the cost of the work, up to a maximum of £15,000. You can get up to £350 per chargepoint socket installed and £500 per parking space enabled with supporting infrastructure.

Organisations can receive up to five grants across five different sites.

The chargepoint can only be used by the building’s staff and vehicles and cannot be used by members of the public.

Each parking space that is having a chargepoint installed must be off-street, private and clearly defined, but it does not have to be part of the property. The parking space must be owned by the organisation applying for the chargepoints, or be a space that they have the legal right to use. The chargepoint must be from an OZEV approved list.

Plug-in vehicle grants

The government has announced that it is extending its grants for electric vans, trucks, taxis, and motorbikes. It is also increasing the Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Grant from £35,000 to £50,000.

The grant for small vans applies to vehicles that are less than 2,500kg gross vehicle weight, have CO2 emissions of less than 50g/km and can travel at least 60 miles with no emissions.

The grant will cover 35 per cent of the purchase price for small vans, up to a maximum of £2,500.

The grant for large vans meanwhile is for vehicles that are between 2,500kg and 4,250kg gross vehicle weight, have CO2 emissions of less than 50g/km, and can travel at least 60 miles without any emissions at all. The grant will cover up to a maximum of £5,000.

The grant for taxis can be used on vehicles with CO2 emissions of less than 50g/km that can travel at least 70 miles without any emissions. The grant will pay for 20 per cent of the purchase price for these vehicles, up to a maximum of £6,000.

The grant for small trucks is for vehicles that are between 4,250kg and 12,000kg gross

weight, with CO2 emissions of at least 50 per cent less than the equivalent conventional Euro VI vehicle (that can carry the same capacity). It must be able to travel at least 60 miles with no emissions. The grant will pay for 20 per cent of the purchase price, up to a maximum of £16,000.

The grant for large trucks is up to £25,000.

To be eligible for a grant, the vehicle must be heavier than 12,000kg, have CO2 emissions of at least 50 per cent less than the equivalent conventional Euro VI vehicle (that can carry the same capacity), and be able to travel at least 60 miles without any emissions.

Some wheelchair accessible vehicles can be sold at a 35 per cent discount. The seller will include the discount in the purchase price, with the maximum discount at £2,500.

To be eligible for a grant, the vehicle must be converted from a passenger vehicle, have zero tailpipe CO2 emissions, and be able to travel at least 70 miles without any emissions. It must cost less than £50,000, including VAT and delivery fees, not including cost of conversion. M

Changes to the ZEV Mandate explained

The government has announced changes to the Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate, with flexibilities introduced to make it easier for automotive industry to meet transition targets, whilst still remaining on trajectory to achieve overall ambitions. We summarise the changes and find out what this potentially means for fleet operators

Flexibilities have been included in the UK’s Zero Emission Vehicle Mandate, which the government says will support the automotive industry.

Part of the mandate’s revisions includes a confirmation that the 2030 phase-out date for new petrol and diesel car sales will be reinstated, but with the allowance for hybrid cars to be sold until 2035.

What’s more, all powertrains on vans, be it petrol, diesel, hybrid and or plug-in hybrid – will be permitted until 2035.

The government says the changes announced will strengthen its commitment to switch to electric vehicles while also introducing practical reforms to support the industry meet this target.

The revisions, which reflect a recent consultation, follow lobbying from some automotive companies and ‘crunch talks’ with the Department for Transport, where vehicle manufacturers voiced their concerns about selling an increasing proportion of electric vehicles, as they say demand is still low.

So what’s changed?

There is an existing flexibility for manufacturers to create ‘credits’ in the scheme by reducing emissions from their non-ZEV fleet compared to a 2021 baseline. This currently expires in 2026 but the changes to the mandate include extending this to 2029. The government says this will give “significant

additional flexibility to reward CO2 savings from hybrids”. Caps will be included to ensure credibility, the government says.

The updated ZEV mandate will also include a new flexibility to introduce a van-to-car and car-to-van transfer for manufacturers who make both types of products. This will allow manufacturers who have overachieved against either the car or van targets to transfer excess credits to the other scheme to help achieve compliance.

One car credit will be exchanged for 0.4 van credits and one van credit will be exchanged for 2.0 car credits, a measure derived from relative mileage and CO2 emissions. This flexibility would be uncapped and available for the compliance year 2025 onward.

There is also an extension to the ability for manufacturers to ‘borrow’ credits. Currently, manufacturers can ‘borrow’ credits from the future if they don’t meet the mandate target in a particular year. This means that they can overachieve in a future year if they underachieve in a particular year. Overall, they have to sell the same number of EVs – plus a small increase to account for the fact that carbon saved later is less valuable. This ability has been extended to 2029.

The new measures will also exempt small and micro-volume manufactures, like McLaren and Aston Martin. These companies will be required to meet a “nominal” CO2 reduction across their fleets post-2030 which will be agreed with them.

What’s more, the government will decrease fine levels by £3,000 from 2025 from £15,000 to £12,000 (20 per cent less) for cars, and from £18,000 to £15,000 (18 per cent less) for vans.

How has industry reacted?

There is mixed reactions from the industry. Many of those representing the environment are understandably unhappy with the changes, while some representing fleets say it gives much needed “breathing space”. Others have raised concerns that increased flexibilities may demotivate fleets to make the switch and that more needs to be done to drive demand. Raising the environmental issues caused by allowing the longer sale of hybrids, Matthew Adams, head of transport and innovation at the Renewable Energy Association (REA), said: “With the government saying in December that real world emissions for plug-in hybrids are 243 per cent higher than previously estimated, it is clear that a decision to allow their sale until 2035 does not benefit the environment, consumers or the air they breath.

Some say the changes will give fleets much needed breathing space, and others raise concerns that increased flexibilities may demotivate fleets to make the switch

“Meanwhile the strengthening of flexibilities mean there is now more uncertainty than ever over how many EVs will actually be sold each year. This means that we risk seeing the government make further concessions when they have to announce the fixed 2031-35 sales targets. Investors in the charging sector are watching. This is a terrible day for the environment, the charging sector and consumers.”

Dominic Phinn, head of transport at Climate Group, said: “The government is sticking to the 2030 phase-out for petrol and diesel cars – that’s the good news. But introducing flexibilities to legislation that is clearly doing its job confuses the market and hampers the roll-out of infrastructure.

“The UK’s ZEV Mandate is a global success story which turned the UK into a leader in the transition of road transport. If we want to keep it that way, the government should bring together the energy, charging, and public sector, together with the car industry, to speed up, not slow down, the UK’s charging and grid infrastructure. A competitive car industry will inevitably be driven by confident EV leaders, not by those asking for ever more flexibilities to a framework that’s designed to help them along.”

Tom Middleditch, head of electric mobility at Europcar Mobility Group UK, said the changes bring the automotive sector with some muchneeded clarity and support at a very challenging time. “As one of the biggest customers of new vehicles, the rental industry needs a resilient and secure manufacturing sector,” said Tom.

“However, there is a concern that by reducing the pressure on manufacturers, businesses and private motorists will be less motivated to make the switch to zero tailpipe emissions,” Tom added.

Talking about the vital role that rental vehicles can play in the EV transition, Tom said: “Sadly additional credits for EVs registered on rental fleets was not part of the announcement even though rental operators could play a more fundamental role, E

F delivering an effective alternative to the bigger commitment of leasing or purchase for businesses and private motorists.”

Selling ICE vans for longer

Paul Hollick, chair at the AFP, believes that the changes provide a more realistic timeframe but that work needs to be done to ensure we’re not “kicking the can down the road.”

Paul said: “The big news here concerns vans. While electrification of the company car parc has its difficulties – notably around very poor residual values – van electrification is proving much more problematic, with many operators finding current vehicles simply unsuitable for their needs in terms of range, payload and cost.

“The new revisions create a degree of breathing space with diesel and hybrid vans available until 2035. This looks like a more realistic timeframe that will allow ongoing development of new vehicles and a process of adaptation by fleets. However, there still needs to be material, effective incentives for operators to make the transition to electric vans over time, otherwise there is a possibility we are simply kicking the can down the road. The ideas included in the Zero Emission Van Plan we created with BVRLA and others last year should especially be examined.”

Peter Golding, managing director at fleet software specialist FleetCheck, said: “The fundamental issues that fleets tell us they are facing when it comes to electric van adoption are that the available vehicles are too expensive, don’t have adequate capacity for their needs, and lack sufficient range.

“The moves that the government has made don’t go far enough towards tackling these core

problems. In creating a situation where diesel and hybrid vans can stay on sale until 2035, they’re potentially just giving fleet operators an excuse to continue using ICE vehicles and ignore the issue for a few more years.”

“We are likely to see electric vans become more suitable for fleet use over time and almost every month, we see incremental improvements to range and payloads, while prices are becoming more attainable. However, whether this is happening at a pace sufficient to overcome operator objections to these vehicles is very much open to question.

“In the company car sector, successful adoption has been powered by taxation advantages – especially zero or very low benefit in kind. There is nothing resembling the same level of assistance in the electric van market and, as a result, no real impetus for change.

“These revisions are all about supply but it’s arguable that the real problem lies with demand. We speak to fleet operators almost every day who are unimpressed by the prospect of electric vans to the extent that their current plan is to operate their existing diesel vans for as long as possible. More needs to be done to change this mindset.”

Michelle Gardner, deputy director –policy at Logistics UK agrees that the ZEV mandate changes do not address the practicalities of incorporating electric vans into commercial fleets.

She said: “Our members will welcome the clarity this announcement gives.

“The sector is fully committed to decarbonisation, but commercial vehicles are acquired and used very differently to cars, and

zero tailpipe emission vehicles must make commercial and operational sense before businesses can incorporate them into fleets.

“There are still significant barriers preventing more widespread adoption, and our members cite increased vehicle costs, lack of usable public charging, the time and cost of installing infrastructure at depots and higher regulatory burdens.

“These are practical concerns that need to be addressed, and we continue to urge government to work closely with the logistics industry and give operators the confidence to invest in green fleets while ensuring the resilience of the UK’s supply chains moving and delivering the goods that we all rely on every day.”

Meeting the core commitment

When announcing the changes, Transport secretary, Heidi Alexander, said that the updated mandate will “back British business”. She said: “In the face of global economic challenges and stifled by a lack of certainty and direction for too long, our automotive industry deserves clarity, ambition, and leadership. That is exactly what we are delivering.

“Our ambitious package of strengthening reforms will protect and create jobs — making the UK a global automotive leader in the switch to EVs — all the while meeting our core manifesto commitment to phase out petrol and diesel [cars] vehicles by 2030.”

While the changes may provide breathing space for manufacturers and fleets alike, it does risk demotivating fleets from making the switch to zero emission vehicles, and the UK losing momentum in its transition to zero emission vehicle. L

SPONSOR’S COMMENT

Tom Middlemitch encourages businesses to rent as EV landscape transforms rapidly

Europcar’s ambition is to continue removing the barriers to electric for private motorists and businesses alike and our latest report –Sustainable Evolution – sets out our achievements to date and our plans for the future.

Growth of the EV fleet will be focused on giving motorists a wide choice of vehicles to suit every use case, from compact to premium cars and electric vans. Bringing the latest models onto the Europcar fleet is also critical to give customers optimum charging and range capabilities.

Electric vehicle technology is evolving fast so it makes more sense to rent now, rather than being locked into technology that could be quickly superseded and access to greater performance restricted. And rental offers businesses the flexibility to select the right vehicle for every job with access to the latest models with no long-term commitments or early return penalties. L

Find out more here.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Tom Middleditch, head of Electric Mobility, Europcar Mobility Group UK

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Are you ready for the sustainable EVolution?

Europcar offers both short and long-term rental solutions, as well as free EV resources, to ensure a smooth entry into the EV world

According to recent data, in 2024 the fleet sector was the greenest it had ever been. Undoubtedly the benefit-in-kind (BIK) tax regime has had a major part to play in that achievement. However, the bigger picture suggests electric vehicle adoption is off target. And, with only five years to go until the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars, employers need to get to grips with the challenge as a matter of urgency.

The question is, what’s holding businesses back? A new report from Europcar –Sustainable Evolution – sets out the current landscape for electric vehicle adoption, the barriers and the opportunities. Front and centre is the issue of confidence. It seems businesses are holding off making the leap because they don’t have the confidence in the electric charging infrastructure, combined with a reticence to commit because of the fast pace of electric mobility development. If they commit now to purchase or leasing electric vehicles, will they be saddled with slower and lower range battery technology that they can’t easily update?

The EV partner of choice

Europcar is committed to helping businesses of all sizes to explore electric car and van options. Short and long-term rental solutions offer a flexible alternative to leasing or buying

vehicles. Business customers benefit from fixed rates, no large upfront costs and no early exit penalties so that they can experience EVs in real-world scenarios. And with comprehensive handovers and free resources to address common questions and misconceptions about EV motoring, businesses and their drivers can start their EV journey with confidence and ease.

A wide and growing range of electric and plug-in hybrid makes and models help businesses experience electric car and van driving in the real world.

The right thing to do

There is no question, the journey to reducing tailpipe emissions from motoring presents challenges for many businesses. However, Europcar has already committed significantly to change within our own operations, services and fleet. Our goal is to be the electric mobility partner of choice because we know it’s the right thing to do.

Europcar is, therefore, ready to help individuals and businesses on their transition journey. We can help answer the questions, enable test and learn in the real world, and make the switch without the burden of long term commitments. M

FURTHER INFORMATION

Talk to us now to find out more about how we can help you move to electric.

Advice for installing workplace charging

Power availability, charging speeds, back office systems – there are several factors to take into account when planning a workplace electric vehicle charging installation. Here are some important points to consider

When starting a fleet electrification journey, it’s crucial to determine where your future electric vehicles will be charged – whether at home, at the workplace, or through the public charging network. This requires evaluating the vehicles’ range and understanding how they will be used. If it’s decided that you need to install charging infrastructure on site, there are a number of important points to consider. Firstly, you’ll need to understand your power availability. This involves finding out the

size of your agreed supply capacity (ASC) from your DNO, how much of that power you use, and what spare capacity remains for EV chargers. This process is vital so you do not exceed your supply and risk a power outage.

If your site does have power limitations, there are ways to get grid connection upgrades via your district network operator, although this is an expensive, and often lenghty, move.

But there are often instances where load balancing systems/software can work around this. This technology uses real time energy

monitoring to change the maximum amount of energy that chargers can use based on availability and requirement of the site.

Having the ability to generate your own power, such as through solar, alongside an energy storage system, is another way around power constraints.

Nottingham City Council is a good example of this. The council installed 40 vehicle-to-grid bi-directional chargers with three solar arrays and two 300kW energy storage systems as a way of working around energy challenges. An energy management software solution communicates across all the technologies, giving the site the flexibility to make the best use of its own energy and provide services to the grid.

An important part of the an EV charging infrastructure project is getting a site survey. This will assess how EV charging can be installed and engineers will typically visit the site to assess power requirements and if any groundworks would need to be done.

If you don’t own the property, you will need to obtain consent from the landlord for chargepoints to be installed. This can be time consuming and may involve legal work, so it’s worth beginning these conversations as early as you can.

If you’re installing workplace charging, you’ll need to understand your power availability. This involves finding out the size of your agreed supply capacity (ASC) from your DNO, how much of that power you use, and what spare capacity remains for EV chargers

If the workplace charging will be open to the public outside of fleet usage, it must comply with the Public Charge Point Regulations 2023.

Understanding charging speeds

It is useful to have an understanding of charging speeds when embarking on a workplace charging project.

Fast charging has speeds of between 7kWh – 25kWh and is suited to instances where vehicles are parked up for the day or overnight.

Rapid charging has speeds of 50kWh – 100kWh and can be used for quick turnaround charging. E

F Ultra-Rapid has speeds of 150kWh – 400kWh and is suited for public charging hubs, car parks, short-stay destinations and for electric HGVs.

It’s also helpful to understand the difference between AC and DC charging.

A chargepoint with alternating current (AC) will get the alternating current from the grid and pass this to the vehicle to convert to direct current. The vehicle dictates the maximum AC charging rate, typically 7kW, 11kW and 22kW (though there are few vehicles capable at the highest rate).

DC charge points have the converter within the charger which means that the power is converted to DC before it is passed to the EV. The size of the converters will be much bigger than those inside a vehicle and therefore this results in a faster charge time. When choosing your chargepoint installer, it’s important to find out about their back office portals. A good back office system will allow you to monitor charging times, speeds, payments and conduct CO2 reporting. It’s also important to look at what aftercare the chargepoint operator offers for service and

maintenance, including callouts for repair, and whether there are any extra charges for this.

What about public and home charging?

The number of public charge points in the UK has surpassed 75,000, according to Zapmap, and there has been particularly strong growth in the ultra-rapid segment (150kW+). Fleets that need to charge on the public charging network therefore have an increasing amount of choice, as well as the technology to easily locate and find out the status of a charger.

That said, public charging is more expensive, especially for ultra rapid charging. Public charging is also subject to a higher VAT rate of 20 per cent compared to five per cent for home charging.

There are a number of chargecards that fleet managers could use to make reimbursement and billing easier. Often coming with an app to locate the charegpoints, the charge cards allow drivers to pay with a single tap of the card, with billing going to the fleet manager. Some payment solutions will also offer data on charging habits, costs and carbon savings, and can be linked to the drivers home charging too.

Research into the availability of charging in the fleet’s geographical area should be done, as there are still some areas of the UK where provision is patchy.

If home charging could work, this option should be talked through with the employee, ensuring they know what the installation work involves and also how charging will be reimbursed.

Home EV tariffs are a good opportunity to lower charging costs for organisations that rely on a driver charging at home.

Get support

The government has recently extended its Workplace Charging Scheme until March 2026, which gives money off the cost of installing chargepoints (see page 13 for more details).

When installing workplace charging, it is important to note that there is not a onesize-fits-all solution. Working with a trusted supplier that can assess your charging needs and draw up a plan that works with your available energy and your operational requirements, is therefore recommended. L

SPONSOR’S COMMENT

Naomi Nye advises what to look for in an electrification

partner

An expert electrification partner can generate and analyse the data necessary to build a robust and future-proof business case for your EV transition.

But also look out for a partner that: Helps you manage costs by leveraging government grants and recommending appropriate financing options.

Prioritises impartiality – a partner that isn’t tied to technologies or manufacturers is more likely to prioritise the benefits for you rather than the convenience for them.

Manages implementation – help with scheduling, driver onboarding and on-site installation management will minimise operational disruption.

Provides ongoing access to valuable data. You’ll need the means to manage your assets and optimise efficiencies from vehicle, charger and even electricity meter data.

Provides ongoing service and maintenance to make sure your investment’s up-to-date and fully functional.

Your electrification partnership can set you on the road to electrification success. But it should also provide support at every stage of your journey. L

FURTHER INFORMATION

Find out more.

Naomi Nye, head of sales, Drax Electric Vehicles

The importance of data to your electrification investment

Generating the right data and interpreting its potential impact on your electrification options is vital to starting out in the right direction.

Naomi Nye, head of sales, Drax Electric Vehicles explores this

Plan for success

To prepare for electrifying your fleet and implementing supporting charging infrastructure, carry out an electrification suitability assessment for a clear picture of operational requirements. This will give you the data you need to make informed, futureproof decisions.

Data relating to your existing fleet vehicles’ whereabouts is crucial for two electrification planning reasons.

The first is to understand the route and mileage requirements of an equivalent EV fleet. Will range (possible mileage from a full charge) be an issue? Does charging need to form a part of daily operational planning? It may be that certain vehicles will be easy to switch to EVs, while others will take more planning or rely on operational changes or further technological innovations.

The second is to gauge where – and for how long – vehicles dwell. This information, coupled with route data, will guide you in selecting effective charging infrastructure locations. It’ll also help you establish the charger specifications you need. For example, if you’ll be charging vehicles at depots overnight, standard (non-rapid) chargers will provide adequate power, put less strain on vehicle batteries and save you money.

In planning for infrastructure investment and implementation, you’ll also need to establish what power capacity your site has. It may be that you’ll need to upgrade this capacity, which –while potentially costly – could save money and disruption in the long-term.

Engage

expert support

Carrying out an electrification suitability assessment requires careful setup and detailed analysis of the resulting data.

It’s a good idea to work with a specialist electrification partner to plan the details and assess EV viability for your organisation. They’ll be able to collect the necessary data, analyse the impact and manage energy-capacity discussions with your Distribution Network Operator (DNO).

A good partner will process the data from the assessment and consider it alongside your organisation’s sustainability strategy, your intended pace of change and your available budget. From this, they’ll develop an electrification plan that’s tailored to capitalise on opportunities while building in pragmatism and future-proofing.

They’ll also be able to support you along the journey, adding value at each stage of the process and helping you avoid expensive mistakes. M

FURTHER INFORMATION

Find out more

Learning from the EV vanguard

EV100 – the network of fleet operators committed to electrification –have created a powerful ecosystem of best-practice sharing, knowledge exchange, and collaboration. Members Prologis, Maersk, Mitie and Metro share their key messages with those just starting out on their electrification journey

Climate Group’s influential EV100 and EV100+ network convenes some of the most advanced global EV fleets. Its members – more than 120 companies committed to full fleet electrification – are putting tens of thousands of EVs on the road every year, driving up demand for electric vehicles and the variety of models available, while driving down prices.

Bringing together corporate leaders at all stages of their EV journeys across an everexpanding number of markets, EV100 is a powerful ecosystem of best-practice sharing, knowledge exchange, and collaboration. We’ve asked leading members Prologis, Maersk, Mitie and Metro to share their key messages of learning with those just starting out.

Prologis Mobility

Connecting a heavy-duty truck charging station to California’s grid can take up to five

Image © Prologis

years – a daunting timeline for an industry racing toward electrification. Prologis, the global leader in logistics real estate, achieved what seemed impossible: delivering a gamechanging solution in just five months.

“We are tackling real-world challenges to help our customers get their electric fleets on the road faster,” says Henrik Holland, global head of Prologis Mobility. “For the Denker project, waiting years for a power upgrade wasn’t an option. In less than a year, we delivered an industry-first solution to energise the trucks and get them on the road.”

The result is a self-sufficient microgrid, strategically located near the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, that powers North America’s largest heavy-duty electric vehicle charging hub. The site can charge up to 96 high-powered electric trucks simultaneously or over 300 trucks in a day. The scale and speed of the project sets a bold, yet achievable, precedent for what’s possible.

When it comes to key learnings, the company says strong collaboration is key. Find a partner that can be with you for the long term, that shares electrification goals and can help navigate the complicated transition to an all-electric fleet.

The company also advises to leverage innovative energy solutions like microgrids to accelerate fleet electrification while ensuring cost-effectiveness and reliability.

Bringing together corporate leaders at all stages of their EV journeys across an ever-expanding number of markets, EV100 is a powerful ecosystem of best-practice

Maersk

The Medium and Heavy-Duty Vehicle (MHDV) segment remains the hardest to electrify. But members of EV100+, the truck counterpart to EV100, are making huge strides. When Maersk put over a hundred electric trucks on US highways, from 2022 on, it was one of the first logistics companies to invest in e-trucks at scale. A year later, it ran pilots in Germany and China, both with their own assets and through partners. Being an early adopter has come with challenges, but the Denmark-based multinational, a founding member of EV100+, wanted to show industry – and its customers – that it can be done.

“For road transportation, we see the EV transition as the primary long-term solution,” says Kenny Kristensen, head of energy transition – landside transportation at Maersk. “And we’ve made direct investments in line with this strategy. However, Maersk continues to rely on support from the industry, regulators and – the starting point for all we do – our E

F customers. EV100+ has been and remains a partner for Maersk to facilitate conversations between like-minded ambitious companies and provide consolidated input to legislators.”

As of 2024, battery electric technology has advanced even further. The potential of total cost of ownership parity is no longer a dream, but achievable through further scaling and careful deployment considerations in the early years – proof that the company has chosen the right path.

Some of Maersk’s advice includes to set targets for yourself and your transportation partners, and to be willing to change operational patterns (in the early years) to increase EV utilisation.

Maersk also advises to be willing to commit longer to your logistics partner to reduce their risk in an investment business case, and to plan charging infrastructure before ordering the vehicle as this might be your biggest bottleneck.

Mitie

In the cars and vans segment, EV100 member Mitie is driving its transition at a speed and scale few can match. In 2024 alone, Britain’s leading facilities transformation company welcomed the 4,000th, 5,000th, and 6,000th EV to its fleet. The latest boost came from a large order of the Volkswagen Buzz ID, which meets many of Mitie’s complex business requirements – and driver needs. Mitie’s approach of listening closely to the concerns of its colleagues has

led to some of its most reluctant drivers becoming EV advocates – and the company is already eyeing its 7,000th milestone.

“Our EV transition is central to Mitie’s Plan Zero commitment to reach net zero operational emissions by the end of 2025,” says Chris Cubberley, head of fleet at Mitie. “We’re proud to boast one of the UK’s largest electric fleets – now at more than 6,000 EVs. We have worked tirelessly to overcome challenges and find creative ways to meet our driver’s needs through a diverse fleet. Whilst we have come a long way, the journey is far from over and we’re excited to continue finding innovative ways to transition the rest of our fleet to electric.”

Mitie has three key pieces of advice for those starting out on their EV journey. First, the company says that an EV transition needs to be sponsored and agreed by the most senior stakeholders within an organisation. It is a turbulent world with regulation, market confidence and latest innovations all fluctuating drastically, and an organisation needs to be aligned from top to bottom to face these challenges head on in pursuit of transitioning to sustainable transport.

Second, Mitie says that it is imperative to be open and flexible with an EV strategy.

It is true that there are not always the electric options available on the market to fit business requirements, and diverse fleets require creative solutions.

The third piece of advice is to support drivers, as they are the most important part of any EV transition, after all these are the people driving our vehicles day in, day out. It is imperative to listen and act on their feedback and implement strategies that benefit them.

METRO

Germany’s METRO joined EV100 as a founding member in 2017. Back then, the international wholesale and food service business had a small number of charging facilities installed at a limited number of locations. METRO made a commitment to add 1,000 charging stations by 2030. It reached its target in 2023, seven years early, and is on track to reach 1,500 next year.

The company points to the strong dialogue between its partner charging point operators (CPOs) and distribution system operators (DSOs) as critical to its success, ensuring smooth grid access.

Collaboration, in general, has been key.

“METRO was a founding member of the Climate Group’s EV100 initiative in 2017 – at a time when EV charging was just getting started,” says Olaf Schulze, vice president, energy management at METRO. “Our commitment has been an incredible driver to pioneer charging infrastructure and promote e-mobility wherever we operate, and the support we have received from the entire organisation has been even stronger than expected.” Now the company, which has a customer base in more than 30 countries across Europe and Asia, is looking at locations with little EV infrastructure, starting with Pakistan and Kazakhstan.

Turning commitment into action

Extended case studies from these and other EV100 and EV100+ members are available in the latest annual report, Turning Commitment into Action: How Ambitious Fleets are Driving the Global EV Transition. You can read the full report and find out more about the network and how to join via theclimategroup.org/ ev100. Follow Climate Group across social media for the latest on how the network plans to expand its model of impact to emerging markets in Latin America, Asia and Africa. M

Image © Prologis

#1 FOR SALARY SACRIFICE #1 FOR CHOICE

Supporting the transition to EVs at Sanctuary Housing

Sanctury Housing aids the transition to an fully-EV fleet with a salary sacrifice car scheme in partnership with Tusker

Sanctuary Housing, a leading UK housing provider, has launched a salary sacrifice car scheme with Tusker to enhance employee benefits and support their sustainability targets. The initiative aligns with the company’s commitment to net-zero emissions while offering employees access to affordable electric vehicles (EVs).

How it fits Sanctuary’s goals

The scheme is more than just a perk—it supports the transition to an all-EV fleet and encourages employees to switch to EVs for commuting and personal use. With over 120,000 properties in their portfolio, Sanctuary know the impact of carbon emissions firsthand. By transitioning not just their fleet to EV but also encouraging employees to make the change with their personal vehicles, the company feels they’re taking a holistic approach to reducing their carbon footprint.

Seamless integration and positive feedback

Launched via the Reward Gateway platform, the scheme is easy to access, with Tusker managing logistics, from vehicle delivery to charger installations.

Highlights

Ease of use: employees are pleasantly surprised by how simple the process is, from running quotes to placing orders. Affordability: the scheme has enabled many employees to afford EVs—cars they couldn’t have considered otherwise. Sustainability: employees appreciate contributing to the organisation’s green agenda.

Starting your EV journey: A guide for public sector fleets

Electrifying public sector fleets is an opportunity to deliver cleaner, quieter, and more cost-effective services to the communities that rely on them. But with high service reliability requirements and complex infrastructure dependencies, getting the transition right demands more than good intentions – it demands robust planning from day one

Drawing on our experience supporting hundreds of fleet transitions across the UK and globally, we’ve identified four key steps every public sector fleet operator should take to build a strong, scalable foundation for success.

Know which vehicles and depots to electrify – and when Not all routes or services are ready for electrification on day one. Using your actual duty cycles (payload, dwell times, routes, topography and weather) is key to understanding the suitability of your vehicles and depots to operate as electric, considering required EV range, battery size, charging configurations. This helps you identify early wins – vehicles, services and depots you can electrify immediately –while building a phased cost-effective and technology ready plan for the entire fleet.

Map your depot power needs

– avoid overspending Infrastructure can make or break your transition budget. For this purpose, it is essential to map the actual energy performance of your fleet to determine what chargers, how many, what peak power and your opportunities to manage it –helping you determine the right-sized grid connection and avoid costly overestimates. In recent UK projects, our client saved up to £10 million over their fleet’s lifecycle.

Align your plan with the evolving market

Energy markets, EV tech and policy incentives are moving fast. A digital planning framework allows you to continuously test new scenarios – whether it’s adding new suppliers, new technology (the latest battery options or charger models), testing new energy models, and do so as you scale up your depot operations – so your plan stays live and aligned up to date with the latest market dynamics and the changing environment.

Build confidence across your organisation

Fleet transitions can stall when departments aren’t aligned. It is key to develop an integrated planning framework that creates a shared data environment, where transport, finance, operations and sustainability teams can all make decisions based on the same evidence. That builds buy-in and accelerates implementation. Electrifying public sector fleets is complex –but with the right tools, it’s entirely achievable. BetterFleet was built specifically to support organisations where services must stay running, risks must be managed, and decisions must be based on operational and commercial realities. M

FURTHER INFORMATION

To explore how BetterFleet can support your transition, visit betterfleet.com or get in touch with the BetterFleet team.

Moving into electric vehicles: briefing the driver

An organisation’s fleet electrification plans must involve the driver, ensuring they are onboard from the start and that they feel confident with the technology. Here’s what information to share

With improved ranges, a good charging infrastructure, and easy-to-use technology to locate chargers – driving an electric vehicle is not that different from running a petrol or diesel vehicle these days.

That said, if a driver is unfamiliar with electric vehicles, there are a number of things they should be briefed on to ensure they have a positive experience, and to get the most out of their vehicle.

Don’t ignore the basics

As a starting point, a driver should be talked through the vehicle’s technology and charging procedure. This should include basic but essential information such as how to access

the charging port, where the cable is located, how to find out current battery status, and how to search for a charging station.

If the driver will have to use the public charging network, then it’s worth explaining through the various types and speeds of charging available.

Ultra-Rapid chargers have speeds of 150kWh – 400kWh and can be found on motorway services or near major routes. They can charge an electric car to 80 per cent in 10 minutes to one hour, however, there is a cost premium for such a quick turnaround.

Rapid charging has speeds of 50kWh – 100kWh and can typically charge an EV to 80 per cent in 20 minutes to an hour. E

F Fast charging has speeds of between 7kWh – 25kWh and charge times are more like two to six hours. These types of chargers are best used as destination charging, where the vehicle can be left for a number of hours.

It’s also worth discussing payments for public charging, highlighting that while many charge points accept contactless payments, others may require you to register first. And make sure you explain how business mileage will be paid for or reimbursed. A charge card could be given to drivers, giving them access to the charging network, simplifying payments and consolidating billing for fleet managers.

An EV orientation session should also include how to find public charging. Most EVs will have inbuilt sat navs or technology that will allow you to search for charging. There are apps too, such as Zap Map, which will tell you the location, speed, charge type, and the status of a chargepoint –such as if they are in use or broken.

If a charger could be installed at the driver’s home, then this option should be talked through with the employee, ensuring they know what the installation work is involved and how charging costs would be reimbursed.

Evolving your mindset

With most electric vehicles offering a decent range, together with the growing charging infrastructure and technology to locate chargers, driving an electric vehicle is not that different from driving and refuelling a petrol or diesel vehicle.

That said, it is worth considering if you will need a charge on route and do some planning, using the car’s sat nav or an app such as Zapmap. This is especially worthwhile if you are driving in an area where charging provision is patchy.

Drivers should also add in charging time / stops when calculating how long a journey will take.

Regenerative braking

Electric vehicles will generally use regenerative braking to regain energy wasted during braking. As you lift your foot off the accelerator, the regenerative braking will make the car decelerate at a much quicker rate. The kinetic energy that is usually wasted is put back into the battery, adding to the range. Drivers should therefore get into the habit of using this function to their advantage. They can do this by taking their foot of the

accelerator to slow down and brake rather than use the brake pedal. This method will also increase the life of the brake pads, as they are not being used as much.

The most efficient speed for an EV is generally between 50–60 mph. The faster an EV goes, the more energy it uses, which has a negative impact on range performance.

Electric vehicles are well known for their instant power, however, aggressive acceleration negatively affects the range of an EV, so it’s better to press gently on the accelerator and increase the speed gradually.

Useful information

When charging an electric vehicle, it’s worth knowing that after 80 per cent, charging speeds tail off significantly. This is to maximise charging efficiency and protect the battery. It is good practice when charging on the public network to not charge beyond 80 per cent, to allow other drivers to use the charge point.

There is a difference between AC and DC charging, which is mainly where the power conversion happens, and how fast the car charges.

AC chargers require the vehicle to convert the AC power to DC power before it can charge the battery. Meanwhile, DC chargers have a converter built into the charger itself, so the power is converted to DC before it’s delivered to the car. This means that DC charging is faster.

It’s worth noting that not all vehicles will be capable of ultra rapid charging. Drivers can find out in the driving manual what their vehicle’s charging rate for AC charging is. This is good to know because there is no point paying for a ultra-rapid charge if the car cannot accept the full amount, especially if there are other options available.

There are CHAdeMO or CCS charging standards, with CCS being the most common. CHAdeMO is a charging standard that was developed by Japanese car manufacturers and can be found on Nissan EVs.

Some electric vehicles will have a driver app, which can be useful for checking charging status, scheduling charging during off peak times at home, or for heating / cooling the vehicle temperature in advance. Some have

There are certain things a driver can do to get the most range out of their electric vehicle. Just like with traditional ecodriving skills in an ICE car, drivers of electric vehicles should avoid late breaking and heavy acceleration, which puts demand on the battery

a pre-conditioning function, allowing the battery to warm up before it charges.

Whilst the information in this article may seem like a lot to take in, the consensus is that once a driver uses an electric vehicle, few want to return to an ICE vehicle. In fact, a survey by Zapmap in December 2024 showed that fewer than three per cent of EV drivers stated they missed their internal combustion engine vehicle and wanted to switch back. L

DriveSense: your partner

Transitioning to an electric fleet requires more than just new vehicles –it demands a strategic approach to training and operations. DriveSense provides specialised EV driver training to ensure a smooth, efficient transition

Compliance and safety

We keep your drivers informed with EV safety standards and best practices, promoting a compliant and risk-free fleet.

Sustainability and corporate responsibility

Switching to EVs highlights your company’s commitment to sustainability and reducing

Future-proof your fleet with DriveSense

Don’t let complexities of EVs slow you down. We will guide you through the transition, ensuring a seamless & successful integration. Contact DriveSense to discuss your fleet’s EV training needs and drive towards a sustainable inbox@drivesense.com

Grosvenor to focus on a future of greener fleet solutions

Choose sustainability with integrity, excellence and agility

Research by Grosvenor, the UK’s largest privately-owned contract hire, fleet management and EV salary sacrifice specialist, has uncovered a significant trend toward more sustainable, flexible, and technology-driven transportation solutions.

Lee Brown, Grosvenor’s managing director, said, “The move to EVs, the importance of ESG (environmental, social and governance), wellbeing and CSR (corporate social responsibility) are all driving change, with AI also set to transform our lives. Younger and more tech-savvy drivers are entering the workforce and are far more environmentally aware than previous generations.

“As a result, we are readying ourselves for a future where flexible app-based, sustainable travel solutions will be used alongside, or even

instead of, traditional company cars and grey fleet.

“However, our research confirms our longstanding belief that we need to prioritise the personal touch by offering customers and drivers even greater access to our staff and management in a market increasingly focused on digitisation.

“We will therefore continue to provide innovative, forward-thinking and flexible vehicle funding, fleet management, EV salary sacrifice and personal leasing solutions, underpinned by exceptional customer service, while extending our offering to broader mobility solutions, for the next generation of mobile workforces.” M

01536 536 536 | info@grosvenor-leasing.co.uk www.grosvenor-leasing.co.uk

EXPERT INSIGHT

STARTING YOUR EV JOURNEY

How can fleet operators understand whether electric vehicles would be suitable for their requirements? And what are the key points to consider when installing EV charging? We ask the experts

Last year was another good year for battery electric vehicle sales, rising by more than a fifth from 2023 to reach record highs. Much of this success was due to fleet and business buyers who are driving the market, spurred by attractive incentives and environmental targets. That said, there are still many fleets that have not begun the process of switching to electric vehicles, or have started with straightforward projects, but not anything more complex.

Cost, uncertainty of the technology, charging concerns, and battery range are some commonly cited barriers.

Taking on the cost concern, a recent report from Electric Vehicles UK suggests that price parity is underway between new electric and ICE vehicles, while it has already been achieved in the used market. With more electric models entering the

market, spurred by the ZEV mandate, prices should continue to fall, also helped by the influx of lower-cost Chinese brands.

Installing workplace charging infrastructure can also seem like a daunting process, especially if power upgrades are needed.

There are often ways around this however, such as utilising balancing systems/software which change the maximum amount of energy that chargers can use based on availability and requirements of the site.

To help you begin your fleet electrification journey, James Ford, EV specialist at Drax Electric Vehicles, shares advice on assessing the suitability of electric vehicles, embarking on a charging infrastructure project, where to go for support and advice – and how to ensure that drivers are confident and onboard with any electrification plans. E

EXPERT

James has spent the last decade in roles covering sales, business development and account management in a number of industries, focussing, in the last few years in the EV sector. With a passion and knowledge helping businesses on the electrification journey, James has worked for key organisations in the sector including Equans and Believ before joining Drax.

F How can fleet operators understand whether electric vehicles would be suitable for their operations?

Fleet operators should carry out an electrification suitability assessment to generate the data they need to make informed decisions. Some existing internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles may be relatively simple to switch to EVs – others more complex. This is likely to depend on factors related to their daily mileage, the routes they take and the length and location of their dwell periods. Of course, cost (both of EVs and of public charging – or investing in supporting charging infrastructure) is likely to be a factor, too. Although the upfront or lease costs for EVs will be higher than for ICE vehicles, operators should analyse total cost of ownership (TCO). This will take into account longer-term savings possible with EVs, such as reduced fuel costs, likely lower maintenance costs and exemptions for clean-air zone charges. Operators should also look at appropriate government grants to help with electrification costs – and funding options to spread upfront outlay across financial years.

If it’s decided that workplace/fleet charging would be needed, what are the key points to consider before embarking on an infrastructure project?

While an EV may theoretically be able to carry out the requirements of an existing ICE vehicle, it’ll also need a practical charging schedule. This might involve overnight depot charging or charging at a driver’s home – or require daytime charging at public or owned charging facilities.

An electrification suitability assessment’s data will help clarify vehicles’ charging requirements. Where it’s clear that installing owned charging infrastructure’s necessary for operational efficiencies and cost savings, the assessment will inform investment decisions.

Knowing where vehicles dwell will help define effective locations for installation. Knowing when they dwell will help operators plan charging schedules. Knowing for how long they dwell will help operators understand what type (specification, power and networking options) of chargers they need.

Again, cost of infrastructure implementation will influence decisions. Operators should look into appropriate government support to help with the outlay for preparatory works (‘civils’), hardware, and installation costs. And they should consider funding options to help them spread potentially substantial upfront costs.

The implementation of effective charging infrastructure can be a complicated business with the risk of expensive mistakes. It’s therefore a good idea for operators to engage an electrification expert for support throughout the process. End-to-end partnership support, energy expertise and manufacture/technology impartiality are among the qualities operators should look for.

How can employers ensure their drivers are accepting of their electric vehicles and confident of the charging process?

The key to successful EV onboarding is effective driver communication.

While the benefits of EVs are clear – and EV drivers generally compare the driving experience favourably –negative preconceptions remain.

It’s therefore important to include drivers in electrification plans as early as possible. As

James Ford, EV specialist, Drax Electric Vehicles

well as sharing the reasons for – and timelines of – electrification plans, employers should consider holding demonstration days and training sessions.

Giving drivers (and other employees) a chance to drive vehicles, use charging facilities and ask questions will help with engagement... and even build excitement.

It’s also key to ensure there’s a plan in place post-electrification to support drivers with any issues they experience. Building these plans into onboarding schedules and sharing guides and resources with drivers will help them to feel confident about the upcoming change.

What help and support is out there for organisations looking to electrify their fleet or take on electric company cars?

There’s a lot of information available on electrification. So much so that it can be difficult to know where to look and what to read.

An expert electrification partner is potentially the greatest source of support in converting your fleets and implementing supporting charging infrastructure. A good one won’t just have expertise in EVs and both charging hardware and software, it’ll also understand how electrification affects

your organisation’s energy consumption and sustainability objectives. Having a one-stop-shop, manufacturerand technology-impartial ally alongside you for the electrification journey can add value at each stage of the process.

The other important type of support is financial, and an expert electrification partner can help you with this. Deadlines for securing Government grants such as the Workplace Charging Scheme and EV infrastructure grant – to help with the cost of charging hardware and its installation – have been extended. And financial support with the purchase price of vans, trucks and other plug-in vehicles remains. Some tax advantages –such as EV company car drivers having to pay less Benefit-in-Kind tax – also exist, as do exemptions for clean-air zone charges. It may also be possible to secure a funding agreement to spread the initial cost of charging infrastructure implementation. This can make the difference between owned charging facilities being a non-starter and becoming an affordable proposition. It can equally represent an opportunity to supercharge your existing infrastructure plans – in terms of specifications or geographical spread, for example. M

The Chinese EVs making an impact in the UK

Several Chinese electric vehicle brands have recently entered the UK market, offering a diverse range of tech-filled models at affordable prices. We look at why Chinese carmakers are proving popular, and offer a rundown of what’s available

Chinese electric vehicle brands are gaining considerable interest in both the UK and the rest of Europe. A shift in brand perspective is occurring. According to Jato Dynamics, in November 2024, BYD registered more units than Honda, Omoda moved ahead of Subaru, and Xpeng registered more vehicles than Jaguar or Lancia in Europe.

What’s more, enquiries on Auto Trader for new cars by new Chinese entrants more than doubled last year, up from 1.3 per cent in 2023 to 3.4 per cent in 2024. So why are electric vehicles from Chinese automakers gaining such rapid popularity? A big selling point is their affordability. According to Auto Trader, Chinese new

Xpeng G6

entrants have helped to raise the number of under £30,000 new EV options from nine to 29 between 2024 and 2025.

Technology is another positive, with these EVs packed full of innovation.

Some of the perceived negatives however include data security and quality. Research from Auto Trader found that 41 per cent of over 55s were concerned by data security and privacy risks when buying Chinese products, with 43 per cent mistrusting the quality of goods.

The wider impact

Why are so many Chinese automakers targeting the UK?

The UK has ambitious electrification targets, and last year overtook Germany as Europe’s top market for electric vehicles (EVs).

The UK is also tariff free to Chinese manufacturers, in contrast with EU markets, making the country an attractive proposition.

The affordable Chinese models entering the market may also have a knock-on effect of driving competition in the UK, lowering

According

to Auto Trader, Chinese new entrants have helped to raise the number of under-£30,000 new EV options from nine to 29 between 2024 and 2025

the cost of new EVs for buyers further, as manufacturers work to meet EV sales targets.

So what Chinese electric vehicles can you find in the UK, currently and in the near future?

Xpeng

Xpeng has entered the UK market with its electric mid-size coupe SUV, Xpeng G6.

Distributed by International Motors Ltd (IML), there are plans to open 20 dealerships across the UK in 2025.

With a focus on AI-driven technology, Xpeng aims to offer a more intuitive, safer, and highly customisable driving experience.

Its range is reported to be 354 miles (WLTP) and it offers 800-volt supercharging.

In January 2025, Xpeng announced two strategic partnerships with global industry leaders, Volkswagen and BP Pulse, to create a super-fast charging network and explore cutting-edge solutions together.

At the end of 2025, Xpeng aims to expand its presence in more than 60 countries and regions.

Omoda

Omoda is produced by Chinese car brand Chery Automobile and is the sister brand to Jaecoo, mentioned below.

The company’s all-electric E5 entered the UK market last year, and has sold over 130,000 units internationally.

The electric crossover SUV is powered by a 150 kW (204 hp) electric motor and a 61 kWh battery. It offers a WLTP range of 257 miles and can charge at up to 80 kW, with a 30 to 80 per cent charge possible in just 28 minutes.

The name OMODA is a combination of “O” which is the symbol for oxygen, and “moda” which is Italian for fashion, and is looking to attract a new generation of buyers.

The OMODA E5 has been awarded a five-star safety rating in the Euro NCAP assessment. Prices start at £33,055 for the Comfort trim level. E

F Jaecoo

The Jaecoo 7 is a premium SUV set to rival the likes of the Range Rover Evoque, Hyundai Tucson and Volkswagen Tiguan. Not fully electric, the Jaecoo is currently available as a plug-in hybrid drivetrain and petrol.

Already on sale in the UK, the company has established a network of 71 dealerships, and it plans to open 59 more by the end of 2025.

From Chinese car brand Chery Automobile, the word Jaecoo is actually from the German word “Jäger”, meaning “hunter”, and the English word “cool,” suggesting a combination of off-road capability and urban driving.

The 7 has a strong appearance with a distinctive front end. The interior is minimalist and much of its functions are reliant on a central touchscreen, set in portrait orientation.

There is a choice of two trim levels (Deluxe and Luxury). The Jaecoo 7 petrol comes with front- or all-wheel-drive, while the plug-in hybrid is front-wheel-drive only. The battery on the PHEV model delivers 18.3kWh for an electric-only range of 57 miles.

Prices start at £35,065 for the PHEV and £29,435 for the petrol.

Farizon

Farizon – a wholly-owned subsidiary of Geely Holding Group, has launched its SV van in the UK, with sales now open.

Farizon SV is available in five different size combinations: L1 H1, L1 H2, L2 H2, L2 H3 and L3 H3.

The model line-up includes the option of a 67 kWh or an 83 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, with a 106 kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery available for the L3 H3 model. One efficient, all-electric

powertrain is available which produces 170 kW (231 PS) of power and 336 Nm of torque.

Combined WLTP range is reported to be between 177 and 247 miles, with an urban WLTP range of up to 342 miles, although UK-based testing is underway to validate real world unladen and laden range.

The SV is rated to tow up to two tonnes with a braked trailer.

The SV features a number of innovations, including drive-by-wire technology, a unique b-pillarless design and cell-topack battery packaging, which combine

BYD Atto 3

to deliver good cargo capacity, payload, range and a ultra-low loading height.

A single highly-specified trim level includes several premium features as standard, including a payload monitoring system, heated seats, heated multifunction steering wheel, heated windscreen, 360-degree surround view, and a comprehensive suite of ADAS safety systems. The SV has earned the top Platinum rating from Euro NCAP.

Farizon SV vans will be distributed by Jameel Motors Farizon Auto. Prices start at £45,000 OTR (plus VAT).

Leapmotor

Chinese technology brand Leapmotor has partnered with Stellantis to develop vehicles for Europe.

The product lineup will initially include the C10, a fully equipped, family-sized D-segment vehicle, and the T03, an urban-focused A-segment EV, with additional models planned over the next three years.

The C10, which went on sale in the UK from 1 March, combines cutting edge technology and has a range of up to 263-mile (WLTP). It costs around £36,500.

Meanwhile, Leapmotor’s T03 city car is expected to be assembled in Poland and aims to offer a budget-friendly option for urban commuters, priced under £16,000. It has a reported 165 mile range.

A shift in brand perspective is occurring. According to Jato Dynamics, in November 2024, BYD registered more units than Honda, Omoda moved ahead of Subaru, and Xpeng registered more vehicles than Jaguar or Lancia in Europe

BYD

BYD already has a growing presence in the UK. Established in 1995 in China, BYD is established as providing innovative solutions for transportation, renewable energy, and electronics.

In 2023 BYD launched its first passenger car in the UK: the all-electric compact SUV BYD Atto 3, which has a range of 260 miles. This was followed in the last 12 months by the all-electric BYD Dolphin, BYD Seal and the recently launch petrol-hybrid model, the Seal U DM-i.

The BYD Dolphin has a 265 mile range on 60.5 kWh battery option, while the Seal has a 354 mile range for the rear-wheel drive version E

F and 323 miles for the four-wheel drive version.

What makes BYD stand out against competitors is its proprietary battery technology, called the “Blade Battery”. It’s a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery known for its high safety standards and long lifespan. Unlike traditional lithium-ion batteries, the Blade Battery is less prone to overheating and thermal runaway, making it a safer option for electric vehicles.

GWM

GWM ORA launched to the UK market with the ORA Funky Cat First Edition in November 2022, although it’s now named the ORA 03. And it’s done well establishing itself in the UK, with a strong network of thirty plus retail sites and over 1,500 ORA 03s now on the roads.

The GWM ORA 03 has an electric range of 192–260 miles, depending on the battery size and model, and has been awarded top marks as part of independent testing by Green NCAP which measures efficiency and sustainability factors.

Avatr

Chinese electric vehicle brand Avatr, which is a joint venture between battery specialist CATL, car maker Changan and tech company Huawei –is aiming to launch in the UK at the end of 2025.

The Avatr 11 is a BMW X5-sized car and is likely to be the first of the brand’s vehicles to come to the UK. It’s already available in Thailand with two options: a 90.4kWh model with a 245-mile range, priced around £47,729, and a 116.8kWh model with a 420-mile range, priced around £52,307.

The Avatr 11 uses a 750V high-voltage platform, with charging power up to 240kW. Its powered by two Huawei-developed electric motors, generating 570bhp and 479lb ft of torque.

Avatr has a design studio setup in Munich, Germany, and parent company Changan already has a sales and marketing site in the city.

Aiways

The Aiways U5 is an electric SUV destined for the UK, although exact timelines are not available. According to Auto Car, Aiways is planning to exit its homeland of China and focus on its European operations, with expansion to its European headquarters in Germany.

The U5 will rival family-sized electric crossover SUVs like the Volkswagen ID.4, Kia e-Niro and Nissan Ariya. The U5 is powered by a 63kW battery for a reported range of 250 miles, and will be priced around £35,000. Safety features include twelve ultrasonic radars, five HD cameras, three millimetre wave radars and two interior cameras as standard. L

GreenFleet

TALKS

with Ayvens’ Matt Dillon

GreenFleet Talks host Kate Armitage discusses van electrification with Matt Dillon, head of commercial vehicles at Ayvens

GREENFLEET’s EV Rally is heading overseas

The newly launched Europa EV Rally, sponsored by Octopus Electroverse for Business, will enable drivers to experience electric mobility in five different European countries, over 1,300 kilometres

Following the success of the EV Rally series that has travelled the length and breadth of the UK, this year, GREENFLEET is pleased to announce it is crossing overseas for the Europa EV Rally. With Octopus Electroverse for Business as headline and official charging card partner, the Europa EV Rally will enable drivers to experience electric mobility in five different European countries – Belgium, The Netherlands, Germany, France and Luxembourg. Taking place from 20-22 May, teams will begin in Brussels’ most popular tourist attraction, the Atomium art centre, and cover more than 1,300 kilometres before finishing in

Karlsruhe, Germany. Checkpoints have been mapped out to include charging hubs, such as Fastned’s Baraque de Fraiture in Belgium, as well as clean energy projects on the way. Joining Octopus Electroverse for Business will be the AA, as Roadside Assistance Partner, and they will be supported by the European breakdown network, ARC Europe, giving support from Touring (Belgium), ANWB (Netherlands), ADAC (Germany), ACL (Luxembourg) and ARC Europe France (France). Drivetech will be Driver Training Partner, giving hints and tips on safety and efficient driving. Other teams include IVECO, Ecofactor

and Fastned. All Teams will work together to showcase their brand across Europe and the UK and showcase a range of electric vehicles from leading manufacturers, as well as innovative EV technologies designed to enhance performance, efficiency, and sustainability.

Seamless charging

Octopus Electroverse for Business offers a hassle-free charging experience, which is a perfect match for the Europa EV Rally. Teams can expect one-tap access alowing them to charge across multiple networks with one card & app.

The solution also enables seamless payments, with no need for multiple accounts, just one simple bill, as well as integrated route planning, discounted charging rates, and expansive coverage across networks in the UK & Europe.

Matt Pretorius, head of fleets at Electroverse for Business, said: “With the EV fleet charging revolution underway, Octopus Electroverse for Business is thrilled to be supporting the Europa Rally as both Headline and Official Charging Card sponsor. Using Europe’s largest charging network (Electroverse), it’s time to shake up the electric fleet transition by taking to roads across Europe and proving what’s capable on the public charging network.”

Sponsorship & partnerships manager of the Europa EV Rally, Ursula Perry added: “We

Taking place 20-22 May, teams will begin in Brussels’ Atomium art centre, and cover more than 1,300 electric kilometres before finishing in Karlsruhe, Germany

are absolutely delighted to have Octopus Electroverse for Business as our Headline Sponsor and Official Charge Card Partner. With their unparalleled EV charging coverage across Europe, they are not only enabling us to offer a seamless and efficient experience for our participants but also giving us the opportunity to fully immerse ourselves in the real-world experience of EV charging across the continent. Their commitment to supporting the growth of electric mobility aligns perfectly with our vision for the future of sustainable transport, and together, we are helping drive the transition to a greener, more connected world.”

Spaces are still available for teams to participate, so get in touch and find out how to secure your place on the most exciting EVent in the fleet calendar! M

FURTHER INFORMATION

ev-rally.co.uk/europa

Do you operate vans?

We want to hear from you!

Tell us about your experiences and challenges when it comes to adopting electric vans –whether you already have some on fleet or not.

Survey participants will be entered into a draw to win a £100 Amazon voucher.

Take the survey here

Road-to-Zero Roundtable:

North East

Power availability, battery health, electric vans and workforce skills were all discussed at GREENFLEET’s latest Road-to-Zero Roundtable, which took place at Durham Cricket Ground on 6 March

GREENFLEET kicked off its Road-to-Zero roundtable series for 2025 at Durham Cricket Ground on 6 March. Chaired by Kate Armitage and sponsored by ElectrAssure, a number of fleet and industry professionals attended to discuss overcoming the main pain-points for fleet operators when it comes to electrification, as well as share experiences and best practice.

Delegates spoke about how power availability in depots or destination locations remains a barrier for charging infrastructure projects. However, it was raised that there are a number of lower cost solutions available that are, in some cases, cost neutral.

Legacy infrastructure that is no longer supported or maintained is proving to be a headache for some fleets and local authorities,

however, this can be remedied with companies taking on or replacing existing charge points.

Fleets spoke about how the operating requirements for electric vans between 3.5 and 4.25 tonnes is still unclear, despite recent changes.

Battery health was also discussed, with delegates raising that confidence is still emerging. This has an impact on procurement decisions and length of lease, and the consensus was that it will take time to gather this experience.

There is also a long way to go to develop the skilled workforce to maintain, service and repair electric vehicles and batteries.

View the roundtable discussion here. L

A GREENER SHADE OF GREY

Over 50% of all work mileage is driven in employee-owned vehicles. But how much of it is tracked, compliant, safe, and efficient?

With Verifleet, you can accurately validate emissions, track compliance, and use AI-powered insights to make your grey fleet greener.

• Precise emissions tracking: Validate and reduce Scope 3 emissions

• Tailored carbon analysis: Account for well-to-wheel (WTW) emissions and regional grid carbon intensity for EVs based on your reporting needs

• Automated MOT, tax & insurance validation: Ensure legal compliance effortlessly

• AI-driven risk profiling: Identify high-risk vehicles, flag those with critical safety concerns

info@verifleet.co.uk

MOBILE WORKSHOP EQUIPMENT

Stimulating the stagnant electric truck market

Around 80 per cent of UK freight is moved on the road, mostly using HGVs, which create substantial carbon emissions. But stagnating demand for electric HGVs threatens to slow decarbonisation in this area.

So what is being done to stimulate demand? GREENFLEET investigates

Heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) made up 20 per cent of the UK’s domestic transport greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in 2021, making decarbonising the HGV industry crucial should the UK wish to reach its goal of net zero emissions by 2050. However, in 2024, demand for zero emission HGVs fell by -7.3 per cent to just 213 units, which makes up a 0.5 per cent market share. This is the same as 2023, meaning demand hasn’t matched ramped-up efforts to push the UK into electrifying their HGVs.

These are worrying statistics for a country that has declared it will end the sale of all new, non-zero emission HGVs weighing up to 26 tonnes in 2035, as they made up 75 per cent of the market last year. Over the next decade, uptake will need to grow exponentially, warns

the SMMT, should this ambition, and the wider 2050 net zero target, wish to happen. In tandem with stagnating demand, charging infrastructure dedicated to electric HGVs is also low. Mass adoption of zero emission trucks, then, hinges upon their charging needs being met, as well as a choice electric trucks that are fit for purpose.

Given the time crunch as 2035-2040 looms near, action must accelerate.

Positive progress

All this isn’t necessary a marker of poor progress in decarbonising HGVs. In fact, it is not a true reflection of the massive efforts manufacturers, fleet managers and policymakers, are making to ensure the UK is ready to exclusively sell zero emission HGVs by 2040. E

F The good news is that the government has extended its grant for low emission trucks, for another year – until 31 March 2026. This should help to encourage buyers to make the switch towards low carbon trucks, with the grant offering up to £25,000 off an eligible vehicle.

Trucks between 4,250kg and 12,000kg qualify for the small truck grant, providing they have CO2 emissions at least 50 per cent below the equivalent conventional Euro VI vehicle (that can carry the same capacity). They must also be able to travel at least 60 miles with no emissions. The grant pays for 20 per cent of the purchase up to a maximum of £16,000. The grant for large trucks is up to £25,000. To be eligible for a grant, the vehicle must be heavier than 12,000kg, have CO2 emissions of at least 50 per cent less than the equivalent conventional Euro VI vehicle (that can carry the same capacity), and be able to travel at least 60 miles without any emissions.

Substantial roll outs

Despite stagnating overall figures for electric HGVs, there are a number of companies making the switch to electric trucks.

At the start of this year, Amazon placed its largest-ever order of eHGVs, and announced it will be using the UK’s electric rail networks to transport packages. Over the coming 18

months, more than 140 electric MercedesBenz Truck eActros 600 truck and eight Volvo FM Battery Electric trucks will join Amazon’s transportation network.

Alongside the new vehicles, the company will supply fast charging infrastructure across key UK sites, including 360kW electric charging points capable of charging the 40-tonne Mercedes-Benz Truck eActros 600 trucks from 20 to 80 per cent in just over an hour.

On full charge, the new electric trucks will be able to travel 310 miles, key for long-haul freight vehicles.

Around 20 of the Mercedes-Benz trucks will join Amazon’s transportation network following the company’s participation in the UK government’s Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrator programme (ZEHID), with a proportion funded by the Department for Transport and coordinated in partnership with Innovate UK. Amazon also added eight additional Volvo FM Battery Electric trucks as part of the programme.

Delivery company HIVED has recently ordered 11 Mercedes-Benz eActros electric trucks to its fleet, specifically nine eActros 600 and two eActros 400 models. These vehicles will operate across its nationwide middle-mile network, collecting from retailer warehouses for delivery to end customers.

HIVED has plans to install megawatt chargers in the next year at its hubs in East and West Lonon, the Midlands, and Manchester.

B&Q is another big name adopting electric vehicles. In November 2024, B&Q added two electric delivery trucks to its fleet, with a third to arrive in early 2025. Integrated into

In 2024, demand for zero emission HGVs fell by -7.3 per cent, making up a 0.5 per cent market share – the same as the year before

B&Q’s home delivery fleet, there are plans to add smaller electric vans for more local deliveries in the new year. These vehicles are set to play a “significant role” in B&Q’s commitment to reducing emissions and using alternative energy sources, with the trucks set to make 12 to 14 deliveries each day.

Parcel delivery company DPD has announced it is conducting electric HGV road trials with MAN, with the aim of introducing heavy-duty electric trucks later this year.

DPD is running road trials with the MAN eTGX which will be based at DPD’s Hinckley hub where, following a full induction and driver training, it will be assigned to a DPD route for operational testing, towing a standard trailer.

The transition to electric trucks presents an additional challenge, as DPD has operated double-decker trailers for many years, which reduce the number of vehicles on the road by increasing parcel capacity and reducing the accompanying emissions.

DPD is working with MAN to develop a configuration capable of pulling double- E

The eFREIGHT 2030 consortium is introducing 100 electric HGV 4×2 and 6×2 tractor units, and 32 new charging locations with megawatt-charging capacity from day one

F decker trailers and the first vehicle with that spec will be on test with DPD later this year.

Trials and research

There are a number of trials and research projects taking part in the UK right now, paving way for the mass adoption of electric trucks.

The eFREIGHT 2030 consortium, for example, is one of the programmes under the government’s Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrator Programme. Allocated £49.2 million, the programme brings together leading logistics providers, high street names, and hauliers to conduct a multi-year real world evaluation of electric HGVs that will pave the way for zero emission transport.

eFreight 2030 will help unlock an expected £500 million of private investment from consortium members in electric vehicles and charging hubs across the UK by 2030.

The eFREIGHT 2030 consortium is introducing 100 electric HGV 4×2 and 6×2 tractor units, and 32 new charging locations with megawatt-charging capacity from day one.

Having started in early 2040, the project launched its first electric HGV in October 2024 through a collaboration with Welch’s Transport.

Another initiative aiming to provide the charging infrastructure for electric trucks, as well as prove and accelerate their use, is the Electric Freightway Project from GRIDSERVE and Hitatchi ZeroCarbon. Its second progress report revealed that the consortium of more than 30 members have made good progress in the demonstration, design, and implementation of eHGV infrastructure.

A.F. Blakemore and Son, Samworth Brother Boughey, and United Utilities have all added eHGVs to their existing fleets, while other consortium partners have placed orders and await the delivery of their eHGVs.

Moreover, Hitachi ZeroCarbon has developed a comprehensive data analytics platform that will objectively compare the

operational performance of diesel HGVs to eHGVs, offering insights that will speed up the journey to electrification for fleet handlers.

The report shows that the project consortium has prioritised research and planning, including conducting interviews with senior managers and drivers of HGVs, to lay the groundwork for effective deployment of eHGVs.

GRIDSERVE, the consortium lead, following extensive consultations, has designed both depot-based and public high-power charging stations, making some of the first eHGVspecific proposals in the UK. The first sites are expected to be ready within the coming months, delivering the charging network necessary to provide for an eHGV fleet.

Project Jolt meanwhile sees a number of academics work with industry to establish whether electric road freight transport, and in particular 44 tonne electric trucks, can become commercially viable.

The recently launched consortium consists 15 fleet operators, four truck manufacturers, several technology providers and two universities. The collaborative research exercise is answering the question “how can the move to net zero be derisked”.

The consortium is led by Professor David Cebon of the Centre for Sustainable Road Freight. The fleet operators are drawn from across the logistics industry and include John Lewis Partnership, Nestle, William Jackson Food Group, Welch Group, Howard Tenens and Knowles Logistics.

Speeding ahead

Despite stagnating demand for eHGVs in 2024, the push for zero emission trucks continues at pace, with leading companies taking the plunge and investing in electric trucks, academics and industry working together to iron out challenges, and the government offering financial incentives to make the switch. L

The Commercial Vehicle Show 2025 – get ready to shift gears

If you’re in road transport, logistics, or distribution, the Commercial Vehicle Show 2025 is the must-attend event of the year. From 29th April to 1st May, the UK’s biggest commercial vehicle exhibition returns to the NEC Birmingham, bringing together industry leaders, manufacturers, service providers, and decision-makers

With registration now open, secure your free ticket to explore cutting-edge vehicles, technology, and business solutions shaping the future of transport.

What’s New for 2025?

The 2025 show promises to be bigger and better, featuring product launches, expert speakers, and a strong focus on innovation and decarbonisation.

Ground-breaking product launches

As the UK’s premier platform for unveiling new products, expect to see: zero-emission vehicles – Electric and hydrogen-powered LCVs and E

ULEMCo – The ultra low emission company

The company’s core hydrogen dual-fuel product and service (H2ICED®) involves upgrading customer vehicles and equipment to enable them to operate with between 30-50 per cent of the energy coming from hydrogen. This is achieved by installing onboard fuel storage, hydrogen gas injectors in the engine, and ULEMCo’s proprietary engine control system. Every kilogram of hydrogen used will save approximately 8kg of CO2e, thereby offering

substantial GHG emission reduction without loss of productivity. This is achieved at an affordable capital cost, unlike solutions such as battery technology, which cost at least two or three times the price of its diesel equivalent. This upgrade approach is really well-suited to ‘back to base’ assets that are likely to be in the fleet for more than five years and use power take-off or heavy loads such as in utility applications, waste collection, highways maintenance and other heavy-duty uses. In the pipeline, ULEMCo is working on full zero-emission

alternatives based on hydrogen fuel cell range extension modules (FCRx®). These will provide the opportunity for increasing the utility and flexibility of specialist eHGV. The company is also developing a full upcycling service using novel 100 per cent hydrogen combustion hybrid technology. This extends the life of otherwise useful assets, at the same time as offering a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative to a new purchase. M

F HGVs; battery and charging solutions – Latest advancements in charging infrastructure; fleet management technology – AI-driven telematics and tracking systems; vehicle safety innovations – compliance tools and driver assistance tech.

Whether upgrading your fleet or exploring next-generation logistics, you’ll get hands-on experience with the latest solutions and direct access to industry experts.

Expert government and industry speakers

With evolving regulations, sustainability targets, and workforce challenges, the Commercial Vehicle Show 2025 will feature top industry figures and government officials addressing key issues: decarbonisation roadmap – UK’s transition to net-zero and its impact on fleet operators; legislation & compliance updates – key UK and EU transport regulations; future of alternative fuels – hydrogen, biofuels, and electrification in logistics; tackling the driver shortage – recruitment, training, and workforce retention strategies.

These expert insights will help businesses adapt to industry shifts, stay compliant, and gain a competitive edge.

The Decarbonisation Hub –Powered by GreenFleet

Sustainability is a top priority, and the Decarbonisation Hub, in partnership with GreenFleet, will help businesses transition to greener operations.

Key features: exclusive insights from GreenFleet on carbon-neutral strategies; supplier pavilion – showcasing the latest electrification technologies; charging and fuelling innovations – ultra-fast chargers and hydrogen refuelling stations; real-world case studies from businesses leading the way in fleet decarbonisation. Whether you’re just starting or refining your netzero strategy, this hub offers practical solutions and inspiration.

The EV Café Village

For those focused on fleet electrification, the EV Café Village is the place to be. Industry experts will share insights on: new electric van and HGV models entering the market; battery technology and extended ranges; growing EV charging infrastructure in the UK; financial incentives for EV adoption.

If you’re considering electric vehicles, this is the ideal opportunity to get real-world advice from professionals who’ve made the switch.

Unparalleled networking opportunities

More than just a showcase, the Commercial Vehicle Show is the largest networking event for fleet operators and industry professionals in the UK. With 15,000+ attendees, take advantage of opportunities to: connect with potential clients, suppliers, and partners; gain market insights and business intelligence; discuss industry trends and challenges with peers; expand your professional network and grow your business. Plus, enjoy networking drinks from 4:30 pm on days one and two, and celebrate the show’s 25th anniversary on day two!

Why Attend?

Save months of research – compare suppliers and technologies all under one roof; discover tailored solutions – vehicles, safety equipment, and fleet management tools designed for your business; stay ahead of competitors; exclusive insights on new trends, upcoming regulations, and innovations shaping the industry

Register now – free entry!

29 April – 1 May 2025; NEC Birmingham. It’s free to attend so register now and start planning your visit to the industry’s most important event of the year.

Be part of the show –drive your business forward

Built by the industry, for the industry, the Commercial Vehicle Show 2025 is your opportunity to explore the latest innovations, meet key suppliers, and gain expert insights. Make 2025 the year you discover the tools, connections, and strategies to transform your business.

Award-Winning fleet management software

Recently named ‘Technology Provider of the Year’ by Fleet News, Chevin Fleet Solutions is a global leader in fleet management software, helping businesses streamline operations, improve efficiency, and stay ahead in an increasingly data-driven world

Your fleet is the lifeblood of your business, keeping operations moving and driving success. But when it stops, everything stops. Our powerful and flexible FleetWave software automates key processes, ensuring your fleet stays fast, efficient, and compliant at all times. We provide the tools to harness today’s explosion of data, enabling you to discover new ways of working. Our solutions help you power up productivity, minimise risk, and deliver on your promises to customers. By integrating with almost any third-party app - including GPS tracking, telematics, fuel cards, and financial services - you gain realtime visibility of driver behaviour, vehicle performance, and operational costs. This empowers you to identify inefficiencies, reduce expenses, and make informed, strategic decisions.

With our intelligent systems, managing fleet maintenance, workshop schedules, and essential admin becomes seamless. You’ll always be in control, ready to adapt, and equipped to meet the ever-changing demands of your industry.

Backed by over 34 years of experience, Chevin is trusted by organisations worldwide to deliver innovative fleet solutions. M

FURTHER INFORMATION

www.chevinfleet.com

Vauxhall Astra Electric

The latest Vauxhall Astra introduces the first all-electric version, and Richard Gooding finds that it’s a car which places efficiency and ease of driving high on its list of priorities

What is it?

A staple of the UK’s motoring landscape, the Vauxhall Astra is both a fleet and family favourite. Now in its eighth generation, the hatchback gained its first all-electric version in 2023, using powertrain components shared with other models in the Stellantis group, owner of Vauxhall since 2021. Crowned the 2023 EV Manufacturer of the Year at the GreenFleet Awards, Vauxhall also offers the Astra with plug-in hybrid and ICE powertrains. In addition to the five-door hatchback, a Sports Tourer estate version is sold alongside it, with the same choice of powertrain options.

What range does it have?

Unlike the Vauxhall Corsa Electric tested in the last issue of GreenFleet, the Astra Electric has a choice of a single battery. It uses a similar lithium-ion unit as its smaller sibling, but in the Astra the 54kWh battery gives an official WLTP combined test cycle range of up to 260 miles. During our test conducted in colder conditions, we saw a highest value of 262 miles when charged to 100 per cent.

How long does it take to charge?

On a 7kW home wallbox connection, a 0-100 per cent charge takes eight hours, but plug the Vauxhall into an 11kW public charger, and this drops by around two hours. A 100kW DC rapid charger connection takes 26 minutes to refill the battery from 20-80 per cent. As with some other cars fitted with the same Stellantis powertrain,

Vauxhall’s electric family hatch has a standard on-board 11kW AC charger, and a heat pump.

How does it drive?

Dressed in its sharp-lined suit, the latest version of the Astra is much bolder than any one before it, and cars finished with a black roof really do look good, the ‘shark fin’-type rear C-pillar and black badging making a visual statement. Inside, Vauxhall’s ‘Pure Panel’ digital dash is actually made up of two 10-inch screens, one which controls the infotainment system, and one which gives the driver a wealth of – configurable – information behind the steering wheel. Thankfully, not all functions are controlled through the touchscreens. Two rows of physical shortcut and air conditioning buttons sit below the sharp display, making controlling these functions that little bit easier.

Driving the Astra Electric is easy, too, the light and accurate steering allowing you to place the car on the road with no drama. The 199lb ft of torque gives adequate pace, while passenger comfort is placed high on the agenda, with either little wind or road noise entering the cabin. A composed and compliant ride is another plus, and if there is any criticism, it’s that Vauxhall’s larger electric hatchback errs on the side of being a little unmemorable to drive.

One thing it is good at, though, is being efficient. Official efficiency is 4.2mpkWh, but we saw 4.7 on one occasion, and the ‘B’ ‘gear’ mode can unlock increased energy recuperation under

braking. However, the small button on the centre console requires some muscle memory to locate it. As in the Corsa Electric, a trio of Eco, Normal and Sport driving modes give scope for tailoring of the driving experience.

What does it cost?

The entry level Vauxhall Astra Electric is priced from £37,795 in Design trim. Highlights include 18-inch bi-colour alloy wheels, front and rear parking sensors, keyless start, active cruise control, a 10-inch colour touchscreen and 10inch digital instrument cluster with wireless smartphone mirroring, and lane departure warning and speed sign recognition systems. As with the special edition Corsa Yes, the £34,995 Astra Griffin is a value-led model offering singlezone climate control, and heated front seats and a steering wheel among its key features. Next up is the £40,145 Astra Electric GS that counts a black roof, dark-tinted rear windows, alloy effect pedals, a black interior headliner, dual-zone climate control, 360-degree panoramic parking camera, and a traffic sign recognition system as standard. Finally, priced from £43,260, the Astra Electric Ultimate adds LED matrix headlights, a head-up display, a panoramic sunroof, a heated windscreen, wireless smartphone charging, and alcantara suede seats. The Astra Electric is also available as an estate, or ‘Sports Tourer’ in Vauxhall-speak, and trim levels for this reflect the hatchback, but cost around £2,200 more, model-for-model. The big benefit of the Sports Tourer is the additional 200 litres of luggage space it offers over the hatchback.

How much does it cost to tax?

All electric vehicles on sale in the UK are currently exempt from paying VED charges in both their first and subsequent years of registration, so this is also true of the Astra Electric. The Vauxhall EV hatchback attracts a Benefit In Kind (BIK) value of two per cent for the 2024-2025 tax year.

Why does my fleet need one?

Smart looks, a quality and technology filled cabin, and great efficiency means the Vauxhall

Astra Electric should find many friends among fleet drivers who are looking for an EV which is easy to drive, comfortable, and has a bold, newfound sense of style. L

FURTHER INFORMATION

www.vauxhall.co.uk

VAUXHALL ASTRA ELECTRIC

POWERTRAIN: 115kW (154bhp) electric motor, 54kWh battery, front-wheel drive

RANGE (WLTP, combined): 252-260 miles

OFFICIAL EFFICIENCY (WLTP combined): 4.2mpkWh

CO2: 0g/km

VED: £0 first-year, £0 thereafter

BIK: 2%

PRICE (OTR): £34,995-£43,260 (including VAT)

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