Arval tells fleets to stay on top of EV developments to reap benefits

Fleets should continue to monitor the fast-changing electric vehicle sector to make the most of the technology, says Arval.

This includes the launches of new, more affordable vehicles, as well as the UK’s developing charging infrastructure.

Shaun Sadlier, head of consulting at the vehicle leasing company, said: “Fleets that have discounted EVs in the past should keep an open mind as the situation is developing on an almost month-by-month basis.

“We believe that they should revisit their original thinking regularly to see how things have changed.”

He said that the current picture was exemplified by the range of electric vehicles available, which tended towards the upper and lower ends of the market.
 
“At the moment there are some great electric vehicles on the market, but there is no getting away from the fact that choice is still limited,” added Sadlier.
 
“We lack more cars that can serve as direct alternatives to staple fleet models with a range of perhaps 250 miles and hopefully a recognised badge and established dealer network.

“However, these cars are coming relatively soon in the shape of the Hyundai Kona, Tesla 3, Volkswagen ID and others.

“The message is that the picture for fleets could change almost in a matter of weeks as these models arrive in dealerships and could transform your attitude to EVs.”

Sadlier said another obstacle for widespread fleet EV uptake – the charging infrastructure – is also becoming less of a barrier.

He added: “The charging infrastructure is growing all the time, of course, but of more interest to fleets is the availability of chargers in places where their cars are being used.

“Just the addition of a few extra points in specific areas can make all the different to the viability of EVs.”