Shine! Switches to Plug-in Hybrids with Fleet Alliance

Hello, Champions of Net Zero!

In an inspiring move towards sustainability, the mobile damage repair network, Shine!, has taken significant strides to enhance its environmental responsibility by integrating plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) into its fleet for the very first time. This strategic decision not only aligns with the company’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint but also addresses critical tax and cost considerations in today’s eco-conscious landscape.

Shine! has welcomed four Volkswagen Golf GTE PHEVs into its growing fleet, marking a pivotal step in its journey towards achieving net-zero emissions. This initiative has been made possible through a valuable partnership with Fleet Alliance, a leading expert in leasing and fleet management. Their guidance has been instrumental in ensuring that Shine! makes informed choices about its vehicles while adhering to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles.

As one of the four companies under the umbrella of AutoProtect Group, a provider of automotive insurance products and warranties, Shine! is keenly aware of the importance of sustainability in the automotive sector. The transition to PHEVs was a well-considered decision, supported by Fleet Alliance’s appointed representative, Chris Rowthorn, who played a crucial role in the selection process.

Shine! was on a mission to provide company vehicles for its management team for the first time, with a focus on ESG factors, cost implications, and tax efficiencies. Chris Rowthorn provided comprehensive cost analyses for up to ten vehicles, ultimately highlighting the Volkswagen Golf GTE as the most advantageous option based on whole-life cost metrics.

Liam Buckley, the finance operations manager at Shine!, expressed the team’s satisfaction with the selection process, stating, “All our drivers are very happy and have been very complimentary about the selection process. Chris Rowthorn was excellent in providing a full breakdown of costings so we could complete the necessary calculations and provide transparency on the financials.”

Buckley further praised Rowthorn’s efforts, noting that in addition to presenting specifications and costings, he also offered alternative models for comparison. This approach not only streamlined the decision-making process but also expedited it significantly, allowing Shine! to arrive at the best solution promptly.

Moreover, Rowthorn went above and beyond by providing provisional calculations on the anticipated carbon reduction from the new vehicles, which Buckley plans to present at the board level. This data will be crucial in demonstrating the tangible environmental benefits of their fleet upgrade.

Rowthorn remarked, “I was able to demonstrate that, although the leasing costs for the GTE were marginally higher, the total cost of ownership, once factors such as fuel costs and employer’s National Insurance contributions were taken into account, was substantially lower and was a perfect fit for their needs.”

Thanks to this collaboration, Shine! has achieved a remarkable 96% reduction in carbon emissions for this cohort of drivers. This translates to a significant decrease in carbon output, amounting to 109.2 tonnes of CO2 over the term of the lease agreements. To put this into perspective, this reduction is equivalent to the carbon output of 1,824 tree seedlings being nurtured for a decade.

Shine!’s shift towards PHEVs is not just a win for the company; it’s a substantial contribution to the fight against climate change and a clear message to the automotive industry about the necessity of sustainable practices. As more businesses recognise the importance of environmental responsibility, Shine! stands as a beacon of innovation and commitment within the mobile repair sector.

In conclusion, Shine!’s transition to plug-in hybrid vehicles exemplifies the critical need for businesses to adapt and embrace sustainable alternatives. The collaboration with Fleet Alliance has empowered Shine! not only to meet its operational goals but also to play a vital role in reducing carbon emissions and promoting a greener future. As we continue to champion Net Zero initiatives, let us look to companies like Shine! as examples of how thoughtful choices can lead to meaningful change.

Stay tuned to the Net Zero News Network for more updates on how businesses are innovating and evolving to meet the challenges of climate change. Together, we can all contribute to a sustainable and eco-friendly future.