One-in-seven fleets resistant to electric vehicle switch

Challenges with charging, and the cost and choice of electric vehicles (EVs) are holding back some employers from switching to a more sustainable fleet, new research suggests. 

Results from the Europcar EV Barometer for Quarter 3 2024, show that EV knowledge is increasing, with a lack of understanding less of a problem today than earlier in the year. 

However, resistance to making the switch is an increasing challenge for would-be electric fleets, rising from 14% in Q2 to 15% in Q3.

Two-in-five (40%) employee respondents in Q3 said they believe the cost of purchase and maintenance stop their employer going electric. 

Lack of charging infrastructure was cited as a barrier by 36% in Q2 and a slightly lower 35% in Q3. 

Lack of model choice and vehicle availability as well as lack of understanding each dropped slightly on the previous quarter and remain challenges for the employers of around 18% of respondents.

“The changes may be small, but it is encouraging to see most of the figures moving in the right direction,” said Tom Middleditch, head of electric mobility at Europcar. 

“As improvements continue in these areas, and people gain more knowledge and understanding of electric motoring, we believe we will soon also see a reduction in resistance. 

“There has been a lot of negative press around EVs in recent years. Range anxiety remains a concern despite the battery technology improving significantly. 

“The unknown of a new way of driving is also a barrier which means changing to an electric fleet seems too high a risk for many businesses. 

“However, we have found that when business drivers have the opportunity to try out electric motoring for themselves, in real-world conditions, the confidence increases significantly.”

Discover four ways to optimise workplace electric vehicle charging infrastructure in the Fleet News special Electric Vehicle Charging Insight report.