Fleets invited to take part in rapid chargepoints project

Energy Saving Trust and Transport for London (TfL) have announced a new initiative to identify potential locations for electric vehicle infrastructure in the capital.

One of the aims of the scheme is to help businesses expand their use of cleaner vans and light lorries throughout Greater London.

As part of the project, the Energy Saving Trust and TfL are inviting business fleets operating vehicles up to 12.5 tonnes to contribute by helping to map out where the network of rapid chargepoints across Greater London could be located to support this increase in electric freight vehicles.

Energy Saving Trust, in partnership with vehicle scheduling specialists Route Monkey, will analyse fleet telematics and scheduling data and recommend potential locations for rapid chargepoints that could meet the needs of London’s business fleets.

Isuzu and Paneltex are providing data on mid-sized commercial vehicles (up to 12.5 tonnes) to help model how organisations could switch from diesel to electric powertrains.

Each participating fleet in the “Rapid Chargepoints” project will receive a tailored report showing where there is a business case for acquiring electric vehicles within their fleets.

The project builds on the Energy Saving Trust’s Plugged-in Fleets Initiative, funded by the Department for Transport (Dft) and TfL, which helped more than 100 organisations understand how plug-in vehicles could work for them.

Philip Sellwood, chief executive at the Energy Saving Trust, said: “There is a strong business case for the adoption of electric vehicles and this has been shown through our previous work with business fleets.

“These benefits are particularly prevalent in London, with TfL recognising the potential for electric vehicles supported by rapid charging infrastructure.

“We are confident that our work through the ‘Rapid Chargepoint Mapping’ project will provide the information needed to facilitate new electric vehicle infrastructure throughout London.”

Energy Saving Trust’s fleet analysis revealed potential fuel savings of 75% to organisations and businesses through going electric.

Additional savings to London business fleets going electric include 100% capital allowances on zero emission goods vehicles.

Colin Ferguson, CEO at Route Monkey, said: “The role of telematics and scheduling data from business fleets in mapping potential rapid chargepoints will be vital to ensure that electric vehicles are a cost-effective alternative for business fleets.”

Ian Wainwright, head of the freight and fleet programmes at TfL, added: “Ensuring the most suitable locations are selected for charging points will vastly improve the efficiency of electric vehicles, helping to make them the economical alternative for fleets.

“With vans and other lightweight goods vehicles accounting for over three-quarters of the freight miles in London, this project has the opportunity to make a significant contribution to reduced emissions in the capital.”

To take part in the ‘Rapid Chargepoint Mapping’ project contact Fergus Worthy on 020 7654 2613, email Fergus.Worthy@est.org.uk or apply online by clicking here.