Record-breaking Red fleet embarks on electrification programme

Red Driving School is beginning the electrification of its learner fleet after reaching a record fleet size of more than 1,500 vehicles.

The move, it says, is not just about offering its franchisee driving instructors an electric car, Red also wants to set out a greener future by investigating all aspects of zero-emission driving, including home, kerbside and ‘on-the-go’ charging, as well as introducing green energy tariffs for instructors.

Seb Goldin, CEO of Red Driving School, said: “Our fleet has reached a record size based on sound business growth.

“Now that our fleet has reached this point and is likely to continue to grow, we are looking to have conversations with suppliers in the EV space about making Red greener.”

Currently, Red’s driving school fleet consists of mainly Renault Clio and Vauxhall Corsa petrol models. Over the next few years, Red wants to electrify the fleet so that by 2025 the fleet is zero emission at the tailpipe.

Goldin added: “Because of the size of our fleet, and the way these cars are run, electrifying the fleet over the next few years is a hugely ambitious and complex undertaking.

“The needs of our instructors mean they require a supermini or small family car, and as most of our franchisees operate in metropolitan areas they require cars with a workable range in excess of 150 urban miles between charges.

“Finding the right car that can provide the combination of range and cost in the next few years will be crucial, and so we are keen to discuss these requirements with car makers.”

Red analysis shows that the average age of the RED Driving School learner is around 25. Two-thirds of them will fund the purchase of their own vehicle within three months of passing their test and a significant number will opt for the car they learnt to drive in.

“An electric RED learner car will be the gateway to zero emission driving for thousands of new motorists,” concluded Goldin.

“It’s a great opportunity to showcase exciting new electric cars on one of the most high-profile fleets in the UK,” Goldin added.