Fleet Electrification Facts
Get to know more about fleet electrification
Don’t electric vehicles cost a lot more than their combustion engine counterparts?
That used to be the case but EV prices have come down dramatically in recent years and that trend will continue as more auto manufacturers are committed to producing EVs. And with incentives and tax credits the cost differential can become negligible, especially when considering the much lower lifetime costs of operating EVs. Direct purchase and leasing programs exist, giving you flexibility to choose financing that fits your organization.
I don’t use a fleet in my organization. Is there something I can do to support the transition to EVs?
Consider installing charging stations for your employees and customers. That’s a great way to show that you support the transition to EVs.
Aren’t EV batteries going to create a landfill problem?
No. Most EV batteries are made with lithium and the batteries are not sent to a landfill. The lithium is recycled through e-waste management processes.
Is it more difficult to service an EV?
EVs are inherently more reliable and require less maintenance due to fewer mechanical parts. Annual inspections and tire maintenance are the only regularly scheduled service requirements. Given the popularity of EVs, most auto service businesses have EV trained staff and organizations who service their own fleets have successfully trained their service staff.
How long does it take to charge my vehicle?
Charging time depends on the size of the vehicle’s battery and the level of charging. Some vehicles are charged on regular 120V outlets with the standard cable that comes with the EV and can fully charge an EV in 8-20 hours. EVs can also be charged at Level 2 stations, which are 240V. At a Level 2 station most vehicles will be fully charged in 4-10 hours. Many fleets use Level 2 charging for more highly utilized vehicles. A third level of charging is commonly known as DC Fast Charging, which are 480V, and will charge some EVs to 80 percent in roughly 30 minutes.
What happens if my vehicle runs out of charge?
Due to the expanding availably of charging stations and apps that tell EV drivers where EV charging stations may be found, the risk of running out of a charge is minimal for the typical EV driver. In the unlikely event that this happens, there are mobile charging options becoming available for road service.
Isn’t the number of EV models available too limiting for transitioning my fleet to EVs?
There are a number of EV options that support light duty vehicles traveling 200-250 miles during the course of a day and fast charging extends that range. Medium duty trucks, school buses and public transportation buses are also in production and in use in some communities.
Doesn’t the creation of EVs and their batteries produce carbon emissions such that they are no better than their combustion engine counterparts?
While it is true that the manufacturing of EVs and lithium ion batteries creates carbon emissions, the total lifetime greenhouse gas emissions of an EV, battery included, is still lower than its combustion engine counterpart even when considering manufacturing emissions.
How much does it cost to install a charging station?
There are several variables that affect the cost of charging station installation and these include the level, type and complexity of the station as well as the costs for site preparation and installing the electrical conduit and related components. Given the unique characteristics of each project, it is really necessary to have the project evaluated by an EV charging professionals to determine a project cost estimate.