Webfleet with Guide to Transitioning to E-Mobility

Webfleet, Bridgestone’s fleet management solution, offers tips for transitioning to e-fleets in transportation. Electric mobility is already a reality – even in commercial fleets. However, the decision to replace existing vehicles with electric cars or vans poses a challenge for many entrepreneurs. Concerns about limited range, insufficient charging infrastructure, maintenance effort, or financing are often raised in this context.

“By carefully planning and analyzing the specific requirements and challenges of the company, these doubts can be dispelled,” says Wolfgang Schmid, Webfleet Head of Central Region. With a focus on electric mobility, Webfleet, Europe’s number one fleet management provider, will present at the bfp FORUM in Mainz from October 17 to 18, 2023.

“Fleet managers considering entering e-mobility should proceed in an orderly manner to optimally leverage opportunities and minimize risks. Telematics and fleet management solutions help make the right decision. It doesn’t have to be a complete fleet transition right away. Most companies proceed in stages,” adds Wolfgang Schmid.

The Entry to Transitioning to an Electrically Operated Fleet

What brand, what type, what range, what incentives: these are common criteria when it comes to acquiring electric vehicles for one’s fleet. According to Schmid, it should first be clarified whether electric vehicles fit the operational requirements, what vehicles are currently in the fleet, what the typical driving performance and types of trips are. “If an employee travels weekly from Berlin to Hamburg, the decision will certainly be different than for technicians who only move within a 5 km radius,” explains Schmid, adding: “This involves battery range, knowledge of the charging infrastructure, and general driving habits. Ideally, the latter are already recorded in software, and the data just needs to be analyzed.”

Electric Vehicles: Consider Charging Management, Involve Employees

The batteries are the most valuable component of an electric car and can account for up to 40% of the value of an electric vehicle. Therefore, fleet managers ask how they can optimize the performance and lifespan of their batteries. The leading provider of telematics solutions for fleet management emphasizes: “Effective, digitized charging management is essential. This ensures that charging times are coordinated, battery-saving driving styles are tracked, and maintenance intervals are reported.” However, battery-operated vans or company cars generally require less maintenance than fossil fuel-powered cars and can be more cost-effective for the company in the long run – with the right driving habits. “In all technical and financial aspects of transitioning to electric mobility, one thing must not be forgotten: drivers and employees must also get used to using electric vehicles and may need training. This ensures that the technology is used correctly and any range anxiety is overcome,” Schmid points out.

Cost Transparency for Electric Vehicles

While electric cars are often more expensive to purchase than conventional combustion vehicles, companies can save some costs with tax benefits and government incentives aimed not only at the vehicles but also at creating infrastructure. “Companies should consider the total operating costs over the lifespan of a commercial vehicle to determine whether the investment pays off in the long run,” recommends Wolfgang Schmid.

Mixed Fleet? How to Succeed in Fleet Management

After transitioning to electric vans, it is essential to efficiently manage the vehicle performance of the entire fleet – including existing vehicles with combustion engines – in daily operations. “It’s about increasing fleet productivity, addressing sustainability, not only in terms of e-mobility but also regarding the efficient use of resources,” clarifies Schmid.

Factbox: Step by Step to an E-Fleet

• Fleet analysis: Which vehicles are best suited for the transition? Consider factors such as operational area, daily driving distances, and charging options.
• Charging infrastructure: Are there sufficient charging options for your electric vehicles?
• Operating cost analysis: Is the transition worthwhile?
• Range requirements: Does the range of the chosen electric vehicles meet your operational needs?
• Communication: Inform your employees about the transition to electric vehicles.
• Driver training: Are your employees adequately trained to operate electric vehicles?
• Funding and incentives: What government and regional funding programs are available? What tax advantages can you claim?

Only when all points are clarified should fleets decide on one model or another and sign the purchase or leasing contract.