Some 70% of drivers of plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) transition to battery electric vehicles (BEVs) for their next car, according to Fleet Evolution.

PHEV drivers don’t suffer range anxiety and are undaunted by the next step up to a BEV, says Fleet Evolution

New data from the salary sacrifice and fleet management firm reveals around half of all Fleet Evolution clients now include PHEVs on their choice lists. And the overwhelming majority say they’re the perfect stepping stone between petrol or diesel models and BEVs – especially when offered as an employee benefit through a salary sacrifice scheme.

Andrew Leech, managing director and founder of the Tamworth-based business, said: “Our analysis shows us that more than two-thirds of drivers who choose a PHEV transition to a fully electric vehicle as their next car.

“There are good reasons for this. PHEV drivers have become fully accustomed to the charging process and they don’t suffer range anxiety, having charged their vehicles many times in real-life situations. So, they are undaunted by the next step up to a BEV.”

Leech also said that PHEVs provide an inclusive and viable option for the c.40% of all drivers who do not have access to home charging.

“By including PHEVs, companies are providing more flexibility and are not risking alienating those of their employees who cannot charge at home and have to rely on public charging,” he continued.

The Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid is currently one of the most popular hybrid choices on the Fleet Evolution fleet at £300 per month, along with the Kia Sportage and the Suzuki Across PHEV SUVs, said Leech.

He also explained that the costs of ownership for a PHEV, excluding fuel, are very similar to those of a BEV and are lower than an equivalent ICE model. The list price tends to be lower than for a BEV, but the BiK bill is higher so that, in the end, they tend to balance each other out.

“We are convinced that BEVs are an extremely valuable benefit to employees and our research shows they are rated highly for their convenience, ease of use and value for money. But, by including PHEVs as well, employers are providing wider choice and not penalising those drivers who have no access to home charging,” he reasoned.

Fleet Evolution is also continuing its work to encourage greater take-up of BEVs and PHEVs within businesses by offering one free workplace charger for any client with more than five of its EVs on its fleet.

“We are providing an additional incentive to help the move to electrification,” said Leech.