Fleet drivers can now assess first-hand what it would be like to integrate an electric vehicle into their daily lives with the help of a new tool from Volkswagen Financial Services (VWFS) Fleet.

The new and improved EV4ME online tool helps drivers to identify the right type of EV for them

The new and improved EV4ME online tool is free to use and helps drivers to better understand what living with an EV will be like and to identify the right type of EV for them.

The updated technology takes into account various factors, including commuting distance, charging infrastructure availability and home life commitments, to help drivers select a model which matches their individual needs perfectly.

From a business perspective, it will help fleets to embrace EV driver adoption and navigate the road to EVs with the ZEV mandate and the upcoming ICE ban.

Drivers answer straightforward questions about their driving habits and access to charging facilities, and the tool leverages its intuitive algorithm to respond with the right range category for their individual needs.

Once the optimal range category is identified, the EV4Me platform then links through to VWFS Fleet’s EV Directory, where drivers can explore specific EV models that suit their individual driving needs. The full range of vehicles spans all manufacturers and enables drivers to understand and compare key vehicle performance data, including ‘real-world’ mileage range capabilities and expected charging timescales, alongside other technical data.

James Fields-Davis, head of fleet development at VWFS Fleet, said: “With EV adoption gathering real pace now, it’s important that businesses looking to transition their fleet ensure drivers are on board with the switch. The new EV4ME helps with exactly that, ensuring drivers can easily identify the right vehicle for their individual driving patterns – both for work and non-work purposes.”

He added: “With so many models now available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but this tool helps drivers to identify the best EV solution for their individual needs, arming them with the essential facts and figures they need, all from a single source.

“The tool also helps fleet operators to better support their drivers who may be worried about where to start when it comes to making such an important decision.”

Ensuring a smooth transition – top tips for businesses

VWFS Fleet has also shared its top tips to ensure the move to a more sustainable fleet is smooth and easily managed.

Understand drivers’ individual challenges

Tools such as EV4ME and the EV Directory are part of the wider EV strategy businesses should be considering. These tools will enable fleet managers to better understand their drivers’ individual challenges, so they can focus their support to ensure a smooth transition.

Create a plan to support drivers in overcoming challenges

When fleet managers understand the unique challenges their drivers are facing, they can start to develop an effective plan to support drivers in overcoming these challenges. This may include addressing charging concerns through home charge point partnerships or investing in workplace charging infrastructure, for example. VWFS Fleet’s EV Charging Guide can help with this.

Have open conversations with drivers

To ensure driver buy-in for EVs, it’s also important that businesses are engaging in open and informed discussions with drivers. Take the time to discuss the benefits of EVs such as the tax savings through reduced Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) costs.

Both the EV4ME and EV Directory tools are part of VWFS Fleet’s portfolio of guides and detailed information, designed to support businesses committed to transitioning their fleets, assisting their drivers and making the most of the many benefits EVs can offer.

VWFS Fleet’s all-new EV4Me and EV Directory tools are here.