One in five UK fleets to go all-electric by 2030

The latest research report from Wex has unveiled ambitious plans within the UK fleet industry. The study, conducted by global specialists Frost & Sullivan, delves into the Commercial EV Transition trends across Europe, North America, and Asia-Pacific, highlighting the UK as a front-runner in the shift towards electric vehicles.

Surprisingly, nearly one in five respondents in the UK (18.0%) expressed intentions to convert their entire fleet to electric vehicles by the year 2030. However, a significant number of fleets have set intermediate targets as well. 11.5% aim to transition between 76% and 99% of their fleet to EVs by the end of the decade, while 39.3% anticipate switching 51 to 75%.

In addition, a quarter (24.6%) of fleet operators plan to have between 26% and 50% of their vehicles fully electric by 2030, with a further 4.9% looking to convert up to 25% of their fleet to EVs.

The global findings echo a positive sentiment as well. The survey of mixed-energy fleet operators from over 500 organisations with commercial vehicles worldwide revealed that 80% have intentions of having at least 25% of their fleet composed of electric vehicles by 2030. Furthermore, 42% forecast that half or more of their fleet would be electric-powered by the same year.

Wex’s data also sheds light on the factors driving this transition within UK organisations. The pressure to adopt greener practices from customers (80%), the impact on brand image (77%), and internal commitments to reduce emissions (77%) are significant motivators for UK fleets.

Moreover, UK fleets have shown a remarkable dedication to emission reduction targets, with 73% setting specific deadlines to achieve this goal – surpassing the global average of 59%.

Despite these positive intentions, the main obstacle faced by UK fleet operators is the challenge of public charging infrastructure. Relying more on public charging than fleets in other countries (70% compared to 62% globally), UK operators find it frustrating due to difficulties in finding stations, inconsistent charging speeds, and payment issues.

Regarding payment solutions, security emerges as the top priority for fleet operators in the UK, with 56% emphasising the importance of safe and secure transactions. This trend is also mirrored in Germany, where 65% of fleet operators share the same concern.

Commenting on the report findings, Carlos Carriedo, Wex’s Chief Operating Officer, highlighted the gradual nature of the electrification process for commercial fleets. He emphasised the need for a strategic approach that recognises the value of mixed-energy fleets in facilitating a smooth shift towards electrification.

Carriedo further explained, “Operators are likely to maintain a mix of traditional and electric vehicles in the foreseeable future, posing operational, infrastructural, and payment challenges. A mixed-energy fleet strategy helps mitigate risks, enabling businesses to adapt and transition fully to electric mobility when conditions are optimal.”

For further insights, the complete report on ‘The Commercial EV Transition: Global Insights on a Mixed-Energy Fleet Future’ can be accessed here.