Businesses looking to electrify their depot-based vehicle fleets have now been given a major helping hand with a new tool from UK Power Networks.

UK Power Networks’ site planning tool makes it quicker and easier than ever before for fleets to make the switch to EVs

Launched as part of the world’s largest electric fleet trial, the ‘site planning tool’ makes it quicker and easier than ever before for fleets to make the switch to EVs.

The trial, dubbed Optimise Prime, sees UK Power Networks and Novuna Vehicle Solutions team up with Royal Mail, Centrica and Uber, which now have over 6,000 EVs on their fleets.

As part of the project, UK Power Networks has developed its online tool so fleet managers can assess how to go electric at lowest cost.

By inputting information such as vehicle schedules, mileage and site energy profiles, fleet managers can compare different scenarios to understand the impact of going electric and the benefits of using smart charging.

The tool also checks if a site needs an electricity connection upgrade, or if a fleet can operate on the existing connection. As a result, distribution network operators have a better understanding of customers’ needs, reducing the need for costly, time-consuming upgrades and ultimately accelerating the uptake of electric vehicles in the transition to Net Zero.

Ian Cameron, head of customer services and innovation at UK Power Networks, said: “Most fleet managers have a busy operation to run, so we want to make sure switching to EVs is just as easy and cost-effective as buying any car or van. The Site Planning Tool has transformed this process for businesses across the country. Helping fleet managers understand exactly what it will look like to run an electric fleet, what is involved and the cost saving benefits of smart charging is a vital step to helping businesses go electric.”