Nearly half of UK fleets have benefited from making the switch to electric vehicles, but challenges still remain, according to a new study from Ayvens.

Government regulations and climate change are the biggest drivers of decarbonisation for EV fleets

The global mobility firm’s survey of more than 250 fleet decision-makers across some of the largest fleets in the UK (250 vehicles or more) found that 47% of fleets that have transitioned to EVs report that it has positively impacted their business.

Government regulations (44%) and climate change (44%) are the biggest drivers of decarbonisation for fleets that have switched to EVs, compared to 38% and 34% respectively for the average fleet operator.

The research also showed that almost half of fleets that have switched to EVs are more likely to invest in renewable energy (46%) as well as driver training and route planning (48%) to support their transition to net zero.

Respondents also highlighted reduced costs (49%), higher employee engagement and retention (56%), and an improved brand image (56%) as some of the benefits they’ve seen as part of their wider decarbonisation strategy.

But EV fleets continue to face barriers that hinder their path to sustainability goals. Technology adoption difficulties were number one (51%), followed by supply chain issues (47%).

When asked about other EV challenges, respondents were more likely to cite limited vehicle options (48%) as well as charging infrastructure (43%) and unclear regulations (37%).

Over a third (35%) of respondents also reported slowing down their fleet decarbonisation plans due to shifting government policies.

And almost half (43%) of respondents stated they would “definitely” accelerate their electrification efforts if government policies were clearer and more consistent.

Tim Laver, UK managing director at Ayvens, said: “From improved operational efficiency, reduced costs and higher employee engagement and reputation, fleets are widely benefiting from their decarbonisation objectives and reaping the rewards.

“However, we know all too well the challenges fleets face when they embark on their journey towards more sustainable operations. They’re dealing with issues around technology, charging and limited vehicle options and are concerned about consistent government policy. Government regulations are a significant factor that heavily influences fleets’ decarbonisation plans. Greater clarity is needed around this.”

Ayvens’ new Sustainable Mobility Report builds on the firm’s fleet decision-maker research as part of its ongoing commitment to empowering fleets on their sustainability journey. The research delves into the challenges and progress in adopting sustainable mobility solutions across the sector.

Laver added: “We’re working closely with our industry partners and customers to overcome [EV] challenges. By helping them develop fleet strategies that prioritise decarbonisation and operational efficiency, we can pave the way for growth and ensure success in a rapidly evolving mobility landscape.”