Commercial vehicle fleets throughout the UK will need to ‘dive into their data’ as they prepare to switch their vans from diesel to electric energy, according to Grosvenor Leasing.
Detailed route analysis will be critical to forming a robust transition plan, ensuring the right solution is deployed in the right place, at the right time.
James Parnell, procurement director at Grosvenor Leasing said, “We have been providing contract hire and specialist fleet management support to commercial vehicle operators for more than four decades to ensure they deliver efficient, reliable services to their customers.
“As businesses prepare for a transition to electric commercial vehicles, a key aspect of their strategy will be a clear understanding of mileage patterns and vehicle usage as part of their EV planning.
“By gathering data on how vehicles are used, transport managers will then have a firm foundation to work from regarding the key factors that will support a successful transition.”
According to Grosvenor Leasing there are three key areas where data is required.
- Mileage patterns: A review of the daily driving patterns of commercial vehicles, including typical distances covered, as well as the number and frequency of stops. This will be critical in understanding how well different EVs are suited to specific routes. Additionally, understanding average and maximum speeds is important, as higher speeds can reduce the estimated range of plug-in vehicles. This process may utilise telematics.
- Charging requirements: With a clear understanding of the distances covered, and the locations visited, by each vehicle on a regular basis, transport managers can also identify where and when there will be charging required during the day and what that means for downtime, delivery schedules or appointments.
- Public charging availability: As companies achieve clarity on their mileage patterns and charging needs, they can also assess on-road charging and investigate the availability of plug-in points on common routes, including available charging speeds.
In addition to supporting the introduction of EVs, a thorough route analysis could pinpoint areas where vehicles are underutilised. This could allow for potential consolidation to maximise fleet efficiency and ensure businesses are getting the most out of their commercial fleet.
“Analysis allows for a smooth transition, ensuring priority is given to vehicles on routes most suited to electrification,” continued James. “It will also prevent procurement mistakes, where unsuitable vehicles are deployed, which can lead to additional administration and costs as businesses are forced to transfer vehicles between routes or arrange replacements.”
Light commercial vehicles account for more than one-third of the Grosvenor Leasing fleet, and specialist teams are already working closely with customers to offer support as part of planning for future electrification.
For some clients, the deadline for changing procurement plans is now a single replacement cycle away.
For Grosvenor, the strategic approach extends beyond procurement. Once electric vehicles are in operation, further detailed analysis is needed to maximise their potential benefits. Priorities include opting for the most cost-effective charging strategy, managing charging periods to minimise downtime, and embedding processes that maximise battery life, in addition to the core fleet management practices that ensure a safe and efficient fleet.
Grosvenor has pioneered support for fleets nationwide through 0Zone, its award-winning service for helping companies with vehicle fleets transition to EVs.
Since 2017, the 0Zone team has delivered support and guidance on areas ranging from vehicle policy, funding, and charging infrastructure through to driver education and fleet management.
Grosvenor Leasing provides a range of telematics solutions, enabling transport managers to gather detailed and accurate data on their vehicles and route analytics. For more information, please contact James Parnell on 01536 536 536 or email [email protected]