Considering Commercial BEV Fleets?

As the world shifts towards a greener future, the transition to battery electric vehicles (BEVs) is gaining traction. While the conversation predominantly revolves around personal use, the commercial sector poses many of its own unique challenges.

Here are six essential considerations for commercial fleet owners venturing into the BEV landscape:

🧐 Power and Planning —

• Evaluate the number of shifts, total miles driven, and charging availability. BEVs excel in fleets with limited daily usage and opportune charging times.
• Fine-tune your schedule to ensure charging opportunities align seamlessly with downtime.

🧐 Best Fit —

• Match the nature of work and equipment demands with the capabilities of the BEV.
• For example, transporting heavy auxiliary equipment may pose challenges, whereas non-emergency medical services could be suitable options.

🧐 Geography and Weather —

• Factor in weather-related challenges and extreme temperature conditions.
• Severe cold can impact range and battery efficiency, while extreme heat can accelerate degradation.

🧐 Dependability —

• Distinguish between fleets requiring 100% uptime and those with more flexible operations (i.e. emergency and utility fleets must operate reliably, even in adverse weather conditions).
• Evaluate the implications of downtime and maintenance during a BEV transition.

🧐 Size Matters —

• Larger organizations have the advantage of experimenting with a portion of their fleet whereas smaller fleets face additional hurdles in terms of cost, planning, insurance, and marketing.
• Gauge the feasibility of a BEV transition based on fleet size and resources.

🧐 Availability —

• Carefully evaluate the growing variety of BEV options in addition to their relevant tax credits.
• Capitalize on current vehicle availability while also considering long-term supply and support.