Are EVs right for your business?
First of all, what is an EV (electric vehicle) fleet? Well, if you have a business or organization that requires operating one or more vehicles, that’s a fleet. So, if those vehicle(s) are electric, you would have an EV fleet. EV fleets can include all-electric or plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs).
To learn more about the difference, check out EV 101 and Choosing an EV.
To determine if an EV is right for your fleet, first think about the driving your business does and your specific operating needs. Start by asking these questions: the answers will inform the type of EV and charging station you require.
What are the vehicle’s daily driving requirements?
What would the vehicle be used for, and how many kilometres will it drive each day? Most of today’s all-electric vehicles have a driving range-per-charge between approximately 80 and 400 km. You’ll also want to consider if the vehicle stops frequently or does more highway driving, as this may determine the type of EV you should choose. If towing represents a portion of your daily driving requirements, the EV range will be affected. The magnitude of the range affected will depend on the payload, and you will want to factor in additional charging sessions.
Where and when would you charge the EV?
Most fleet charging needs should be met by overnight charging, giving you the full range of the vehicle each morning. However, for those vehicles that drive significant amounts during the day, you’ll want to consider whether the vehicle needs and has opportunities for charging. Can work be completed with the EV’s range, or will mid-route charging be needed? How much time will you have between trips to charge the EV? What is the availability of public charging stations along the route, if required?
All-electric or plug-in hybrid electric vehicle?
Next, you’ll need to decide which type of EV is best for you. Learn more about the difference between an all-electric and plug-in hybrid EV at EV 101 and Choosing an EV. Check out the available all-electric and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle models at EV Models.
Do you require auxiliary or heating and cooling loads for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles (MHDV)?
These vehicles may require auxiliary or heating and cooling loads for equipment such as cranes, lifts, and off-board tools. Or they may have heating and cooling loads. If so, you’ll need to consider their draw on the battery and optional auxiliary power or heating/cooling units powered by diesel or another fuel.
The benefits of an EV fleet
Have you read all the benefits of EVs at Is an EV right for you? Here are some more great reasons to consider adding EVs to your fleet!
- Lower Fuel Costs
- Reduced Maintenance
- Commitment to Sustainability
- Government Incentives
- Employee Satisfaction
- Stay ahead of the curve
Electricity is a cheaper source of fuel than gas. Fuel costs are approximately 70% lower for an all-electric and 50% lower for a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, compared to a conventional vehicle.
Check out our Fleet Fuel Savings Calculator to find out the potential savings from adding EVs to your fleet.
All-electric vehicles require less maintenance than conventional vehicles because there are less fluids to change (like oil and transmission fluid) and fewer mechanical moving parts. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles have a gas and electric motor, so they still require the standard maintenance of a regular gas-powered vehicle, but far less frequently. And because of regenerative braking, brake systems on EVs also typically last longer than on conventional vehicles.
Learn more at Charging and Maintenance.
Electric vehicles produce fewer carbon emissions than their gasoline or diesel-powered counterparts. Adding an EV to your fleet reduces your carbon footprint and contributes to the fight against climate change. Check out our Carbon Reduction Calculator to compare CO2 emissions for conventional and electric vehicles.
There are Federal and Provincial incentives for businesses that use EVs in their fleets. These incentives can include tax credits, grants, and rebates, which can help offset the initial cost of purchasing an EV. Learn more about Available Incentives for your business.
Electric motors provide quiet, smooth operation and instant acceleration. If they’ve never driven an EV, your employees will probably be surprised at how quiet and powerful it can be.
Hear from local EV owners about their driving experiences.
The auto industry is shifting towards electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, and governments around the world are encouraging the adoption of EVs through incentives and regulations. By adding EVs to your fleet, you position your company as an innovator and future-proof your fleet against potential regulatory changes.