Organic veg box company Riverford is using EV fleet management technology from Webfleet to overcome EV range anxiety and keep its electric vans on the road.
The software not only tracks vehicle location but also monitors battery health, remaining driving range and real-time energy consumption for the firm’s 65 electric delivery vans, navigating drivers to their nearest charge point when they’re running low.
It’s playing a pivotal role in helping Riverford optimise its eLCV fleet operations and charging.
The company has already electrified almost a third of its fleet and is on track to become a 100% final-mile electric delivery fleet by 2025.
James Welton, fleet manager, explained: “Riverford has always had sustainability at its heart, and the health of people and planet is a top priority for us. With Webfleet, we’re putting this into action by helping to take the stress out of anticipating charging needs for our drivers.”
Webfleet’s integral OptiDrive functionality also gives drivers direct feedback on speed, steering and braking before, during and after their trip, helping them to drive more safely and efficiently.
“We find OptiDrive really useful as it gives us a clearly illustrated breakdown of our drivers’ performance, so we can offer specific coaching and support where it is needed,” explained Welton.
The Webfleet platform also integrates a Mantis live camera system, giving vehicle and video data in one convenient dashboard.
“The Mantis evidence centre gives us easy access to important video footage, enabling us to constantly review and improve safety for our drivers,” added Welton.
In Car Technology, a telematics specialist and Webfleet approved partner, advised on both solution and installation.
“We’ve built a bespoke infrastructure to help Riverford raise the bar in fleet safety, efficiency and compliance,” said Andy Butt, installation manager at In Car Technology. “The solution is already delivering on these business objectives in spades.”
Beverley Wise, Webfleet regional director for Bridgestone Mobility Solutions, said: “Innovation and a progressive mindset are vital for successful transport decarbonisation. Riverford have grasped the baton, bringing us another strong example of how data-driven mobility solutions can help us pivot towards a more sustainable future.”
Webfleet’s open integration capabilities means the system is future proofed.
“Looking ahead, it’s great to know that the system allows for integration of other solutions too, without us having to worry about switching to a new platform,” Welton continued.
