New research underlining the value of providing business drivers with the opportunity to use electric vehicles in real-world conditions is out now from Europcar Mobility Group UK.

The survey of fleet drivers saw 44.2% say that a positive EV rental experience could increase their confidence in switching to electric motoring, showing that electric rental could play a vital role in building the demand and confidence needed to support the UK’s transition to zero-emission vehicles.

Europcar commissioned the research following the announcement of the ZEV mandate consultation. The findings will be included in the mobility provider’s own response to the inquiry, which closes on 23 October.

The findings highlight the operational issues fleets need to address. Almost half of business drivers (47.3%) identify battery range as an aspect of the zero-tailpipe emission transition most likely to affect them when driving for work. Electricity and charging costs follow at 41.4%, ahead of vehicle purchase or leasing costs (36.0%), public charge point availability (34.3%) and charging time and its impact on working schedules (33.9%).

A further 39% support incentives to increase the availability of EVs through rental, enabling consumers and businesses to gain practical experience before making longer-term vehicle decisions.

Tom Middleditch, sustainability spokesperson at Europcar Mobility Group UK, said the research reinforces the call from the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) for the ZEV transition to be underpinned by stronger consumer and business demand and confidence.

“Rental gives employers a practical way to introduce colleagues to electric driving without requiring an immediate purchase or long-term lease commitment. It allows businesses to assess how an EV performs on actual work journeys, including whether range and charging requirements fit employees’ routes and schedules.”

The research also shows that cost remains an important part of the equation – 38.2% said price parity with petrol or diesel vehicles would encourage them to rent electric. Europcar offers price parity for EV rental with petrol and diesel alternatives for eligible business account customers, helping organisations build first-hand experience at a commercially practical price point.

Additionally, understanding of the ZEV mandate itself is limited. More than a quarter do not know what impact it will have on people who drive for work, while a third expect a negative impact and just a fifth expect a positive one.

Middleditch continued: “Businesses need practical evidence to inform their transition plans. Testing EVs against actual routes, mileage and charging patterns can help employers assess suitability, identify the support drivers need and shape fleet and travel policies with greater confidence.”

To help motorists gain a better understanding of EV life, Europcar regularly updates its free digital EV Guide and Knowledge Hub. Customers hiring an EV also gain access to Octopus Electroverse through the EV Guide, ensuring that finding a suitable charger is quick, easy and convenient.

Which aspects of the transition to zero-emission vehicles are most likely to affect you when driving for work? Please select up to three.