1link Service Network fleet users switch to EVs as top choice

More than one in three (35.3%) fleet cars and vans added to Epyx’s 1link Service Network during August were fully electric, setting a new record for electric vehicles among the Epyx figures. This percentage has risen significantly from 25.6% a year ago, making EVs the most preferred form of power chosen by 1link Service Network fleet users.

Hybrids have also seen an increase, now accounting for 17.6% of new fleet cars and van registrations compared to 14.8% in August 2023. In contrast, internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles have experienced a decline, with petrol representing just 29.9% of registrations in August (down from 39.90% a year ago) and diesel at 17.3% (down from 19.7%).

Epyx highlighted that the data from 1link Service Network, which is utilised by fleets operating over four million vehicles, offers valuable insights into the progress towards electrification among fleets, including van users.

While the most recent data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) indicates that fully electric cars accounted for 22.6% of all new car registrations in August, it is important to note that this figure includes both private drivers and fleets. The percentage of electric cars among fleets is anticipated to be significantly higher.

Additionally, SMMT figures for Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs) show that electric vehicles made up only 5.5% of commercial vehicles up to 4.25 tonnes in August.

Tim Meadows, CCO at Epyx, commented on the data, stating: “Our information demonstrates a slightly different perspective from other credible sources such as the SMMT. The vehicles added by fleets to our platform, which is predominantly used by major leasing fleets for SMR management, paint a picture of the increasing adoption of electric vehicles.

“In August, we observed a higher proportion of EVs added to the platform than in any previous month. This indicates a growing preference for electric vehicles among fleet end users who leased new vehicles last month.”

Meadows also addressed the mainstream media’s negative portrayal of EVs, saying: “Despite the widespread negativity surrounding EVs in the media, our data shows a rapid adoption of EVs within the fleet category over an extended period of time.

“It is worth noting that in January 2020, EVs only represented 2.09% of registrations added to the platform. However, in the latest data, EVs emerged as the most favoured form of power among fleets utilising the 1link Service Network.”

This shift towards electric vehicles within fleet registrations not only reflects changing preferences among fleet users but also aligns with the global push towards sustainability and achieving net-zero emissions. As EV technology continues to advance and become more accessible, we can anticipate further growth in the adoption of electric vehicles within the fleet industry.