Two-thirds (67%) of fleet operators expect to be using EVs within the next five years – more than double the figure of 26% currently using them.
The data comes from the latest Operational Fleet Insight Report from the AA and Rivus Fleet Solutions, which reveals much higher positivity towards EVs in operational fleets.
The research, carried among more than 500 fleet managers, found that 82% feel the quality of EVs on offer has improved since last year and 84% believe the range from manufacturers has improved.
But alongside the vehicles themselves, fleets also feel the long-term cost benefits have improved, with almost two-thirds (65%) believing that EVs have better whole-life costs than diesel or petrol.
A total of 66% of fleet managers recognise that EVs require less servicing, and 59% have identified that EVs hold their resale value and have less downtime.
And 78% believe that the number of electric vans on the road have increased in the last year, up significantly from 65% last year.
But barriers do still exist. A third (32%) have identified the lack of charging points across the country and the workplace as the top obstacles to adoption.
The Operational Fleet Insight report also shed light on the impact of Covid-19 over the past 18 months.
While the pandemic has had a mixed effect on businesses, 41% of fleet managers have reported a positive impact on their environmental and sustainability strategies. As well as this, 16% of commercial van users increased the lifespan of their older vehicles as a response to coronavirus, and 41% revealed that the pandemic had a positive impact on their mileage.
David Myers, CEO at Rivus Fleet Solutions, commented: “It is clear that we are in an evolving landscape as the fleet industry navigates the post-Covid world and starts to prepare for the 2030 Government ban on the sale of petrol and diesel vehicles. Our research shows that achieving long-term efficiencies and the need to comply with new legislation is driving a shift in fleet operators needing to consider the benefits of incorporating electric into the fleet operations.”
To access the Operational Fleet Insight Report 2021, click here.
