What your business needs to consider before switching to EVs
Have you considered all the factors?
Is your business ready to transition to electric?
As we approach the 2030 sales ban for petrol and diesel vehicles, more businesses are considering transitioning their fleets to electric vehicles (EVs). Although there are many advantages to EVs, such as lower carbon emissions and decreased operational costs, businesses must consider several important factors before transitioning.
Range
Range is one of the most important factors to consider when transitioning to EVs. An electric vehicle’s range refers to the distance that an electric vehicle can travel on a single charge.
Businesses need to ensure their EVs have a range that is sufficient for their needs. On average, an electric car’s range is 220 miles and 165 miles for an electric van, but this varies depending on the model and manufacturer. Therefore, it’s important to analyse how far your drivers will need to travel each day and if your vehicle choices support that.
Cost
Electric vehicles have a higher upfront cost than petrol and diesel vehicles, which can be off-putting for some businesses. However, when evaluating the cost of EVs, it’s important to consider the total cost of ownership (TCO).
EVs can be more cost-effective to operate compared to conventional vehicles, particularly when you have access to off-peak electricity tariffs and can benefit from reduced energy expenses. Businesses can also offset the initial purchase price by avoiding congestion charges in clean air zones and taking advantage of lower/free road tax. In addition, there are also fewer moving parts to an electric vehicle, resulting in lower maintenance and servicing costs.
Charging infrastructure
Investing in robust, reliable charging infrastructure at your premises is an essential step to transitioning fleets. Installing dedicated charge points at your business ensures your fleet is fully charged and is often more cost-effective than using public charge points.
To ensure that your operational vehicles are always ready to use, and your employees can charge their vehicles while working, you will require appropriate space to install charging points at your premises depending on the size of your organisation. It is important to consider the installation of charging stations at employees’ homes for their convenience. This would allow them to take advantage of lower energy rates, especially if they are on an off-peak tariff.
Charging on the road
Another factor to consider is the availability of public charge points while on the road.
In the UK, there are over 43,500 public charge points as of May 2023 – a 38% increase from the previous year. However, of the thousands of charging stations available, only 3,500 are free. This can be quite frustrating for electric vehicle drivers, as they have to deal with various networks, each having its own app or payment method. As a result, it becomes difficult for them to stay organised and keep track of their charging transactions.
A solution to this problem is Radius Charge’s REV card. With this card, drivers will have access to a network of 11,000 charge points throughout the UK, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience on longer journeys.
Switching to EVs can be a smart move for businesses that want to reduce their carbon footprint and future-proof their operations. The journey to electric requires careful planning and investment to ensure a smooth transition. Businesses must consider factors such as upfront costs, vehicle range, charging infrastructure, and on-road solutions to make the most of their investment. With the right preparation, companies can successfully make the switch to electric and enjoy the benefits it offers.
Radius Charge are here to support your business
At Radius Charge, we understand that this decision will be complex and that businesses will have many questions, and we are here to help. Our team of experienced advisors is available to offer invaluable support, guaranteeing a smooth transition to electric vehicles. Contact us today to fully reap the benefits of EVs, without the inconvenience.
