Got net-zero news, project updates, or product launches to share? Highway charging costs hold back UK EV fleets – AFP
Cost concerns are hindering fleets from fully embracing electric vehicles, according to a warning issued by the Association of Fleet Professionals (AFP).
The AFP highlights the financial challenges faced by fleets relying on highway charging for electrification.
AFP chair Paul Hollick outlined how the high cost of power is rendering running electric vehicles financially unviable for fleets whose drivers lack access to home or depot charging facilities.
He expressed, “We’re witnessing a scenario where using a public charger on the motorway could cost around 80p/kWh, as opposed to a quarter of that amount or even less for individuals with a charger at their residence.”
“This poses a significant challenge. For drivers residing in terraced houses or apartments without the ability to install a charger at home, and who infrequently encounter locations with car park or depot charging, retail charging becomes the only option, albeit at significantly higher costs.”
These inflated charging expenses are causing some fleets to struggle in justifying the higher upfront costs associated with purchasing electric cars and vans, ultimately deterring them from transitioning towards electrification.
Hollick stressed the importance of significantly enhancing the public infrastructure to facilitate widespread electric vehicle adoption.
“Enhanced availability of low-cost on-street charging would not only improve affordability for fleets but also make the day-to-day operations of electric vans more viable by offering overnight charging facilities,” he explained.
“Moreover, it could potentially drive up the demand in the used electric vehicle market. We may soon reach a point where the values of used electric cars decrease, making them accessible to a broader range of buyers, but the limited charging options could impede their adoption. Without economical charging solutions, people are understandably hesitant to invest.”
“What we truly need is a substantial increase in on-street charging infrastructure, implemented rapidly. We strongly urge whichever government assumes power this year to address this issue,” he added.
The AFP has been actively supporting fleets in this regard by identifying areas where charging infrastructure is most needed and highlighting opportunities for collaboration between fleets and local authorities leveraging the Government’s Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) Funding.
“There is a window for swift change with a collaborative approach,” Hollick noted.
“Progress needs to be expedited on the ground more effectively than it is currently. Accessible, nearby, and cost-effective EV charging should be available to everyone.”
The AFP has also been championing shared charging initiatives to make electrification more practical for fleets.
Research conducted by the association in October 2023 revealed that nearly six out of ten van fleets (58%) would be open to sharing their depot or public charging infrastructure with others to facilitate electrification.
The AFP’s newly formed shared charging committee is making significant headway in exploring ways for businesses to offer their chargers to other organisations on a reciprocal basis.
