The AA is continuing its work to go low-emission by adding battery electric vehicles (BEVs) to its fleet while also trialling mobile EV-to-EV charging.
The recovery provider has added a dozen battery electric vehicles to its pool of 2,500 operational roadside patrol vehicles, furthering its existing work to deploy BEVs.
Its new arrivals include three BEVs fitted with onboard EV chargers, capable of boosting EVs which run out of charge so they can get to the nearest charger, helping to keep members on the road.
The new-look fleet is completed by two plug-in hybrids and a hydrogen vehicle.
The vehicles are part of a trial scheme to test EV capabilities within the roadside assistance sector as well as performing a variety of roles across the AA’s suite of motoring products. Some will be used across the traditional breakdown service, whereas others will specialise on certain faults such as misfuels and completing manufacturer recalls.
Already, the vehicles have helped assist members who attended Glastonbury Festival and will support those heading to Wimbledon for the Tennis Championship.
The AA added that it’s the first national breakdown provider to trial the EV-to-EV technology; on average, the units can add 25 miles of range within 60 minutes, to help get EV drivers on their way again.
The fleet additions show how the AA is driving positive change within the UK automotive industry whilst innovating and reflecting the changes in vehicle sales.
The AA already has several EV vans on its fleet that are used for activities that don’t involve towing and also showcased its hydrogen fuel cell Hyundai Nexo SUV last year, configured to operate as roadside breakdown vehicle.
It’s also introduced EVs into its driving school fleet, which have proved very popular with both instructors and pupils.
Commenting on the latest additions, Dean Keeling, managing director of roadside service, said: “This is a ground-breaking moment for the AA and the UK breakdown sector.
“By adding a fleet of electric vehicles into our roadside service, coupled with every patrol being trained to help EV breakdowns, we have truly cemented our place as the UK’s number one company for EVs providing whole-life assistance for drivers.
“Our EV-to-EV mobile charging units showcase our innovative prowess and highlight how the AA is always ahead of the game.”
