New study shows electric cars safer than petrol ones

Electric cars have been found to be safer than their combustion-engine counterparts, with lower accident rates, according to new research.

Although repair costs for electric vehicles (EVs) were slightly higher per vehicle, the overall costs were cheaper due to fewer incidents.

The analysis conducted by Mercia Fleet Management for a major client with a significant number of EVs revealed that despite slightly higher repair costs per vehicle, the overall expenses were lower due to the reduced rate of accidents.

This positive outcome was attributed to the advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) commonly found in the latest EV models. These systems include lane departure warning, lane assist, automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, parking assistance, and blind spot monitoring.

Mercia, the fleet management division of Fleet Evolution – a specialist in EV salary sacrifice schemes, utilized accident damage assessment and AI-enhanced driver profiling to lower insurance costs for the client.

Collaborating with London-based broker Konsileo Commercial Insurance, the company managed to reduce premiums by up to 25% for the client’s fleet of 1,000 vehicles.

Interestingly, this reduction in insurance premiums comes at a time when the overall market has seen a rise in premiums. According to a popular comparison website, premiums have increased by 43% in the last 12 months.

Andrew Leech, the head of Mercia Fleet Management and founder of Fleet Evolution, stated, “These interventions are beneficial for fleets of all sizes. We are open to discussing how these processes and interventions can assist smaller clients in lowering their insurance costs.”

In addition to the insurance cost savings, Mercia is offering fleets the opportunity to participate in a series of free educational workshops focusing on electric vehicles (EVs) this summer.

Throughout July, these workshops will delve into every aspect of running EVs, leveraging the company’s extensive experience in managing EVs for fleet clients.

Leech mentioned, “The level of interest and uptake from businesses looking to transition to electric vehicles has been significant. These workshops are designed as a reality check before committing to the switch. There are still knowledge gaps to bridge, and we have available slots for interested parties.”

If you are keen on attending the workshop sessions or expressing interest in hosting one at your workplace, please click here or email: [email protected].