Short-term leasing helps drivers switch to EV

Short-term leasing can help drivers switch to an electric vehicle (EV) by allowing them to experience one in the real-world before making a longer commitment.

New mobility provider SoGo, which offers vehicles on flexible leases from one month to four years, anticipates a surge in demand for EVs in the coming months.

Karl Howkins (pictured), managing director of SOGO, said: “Sales of new electric cars are increasing exponentially with some fleet companies reporting they account for 30% of all sales. However, private motorists and smaller fleet owners, will still face concerns around range anxiety and using new technology.

“The ability to use an electric car for a month or two will overcome driver concerns and accelerate the adoption of this important technology ahead of the ban on ICE vehicles in 2030.”

At least 35% of SoGo’s fleet will be electric vehicles, and it anticipates this will increase over the coming months. In its first year, the company expects to operate a fleet of around 5,000 vehicles.

According to figures from the SMMT, battery electric vehicles (BEV) sales increased 185.9% in 2020, accounting for 6.6% market share, an increase of 5% on 2019.