The evolution of electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure has reached a pivotal moment with the introduction of a new matchmaking service designed to optimize charging access for company cars in the UK. This innovative initiative, spearheaded by the Association of Fleet Professionals (AFP), aims to address a significant hurdle in the widespread adoption of electric vehicles: the availability of charging stations.
As electric vehicle registrations increasingly skew towards fleet use, the demand for efficient charging solutions is more pressing than ever. According to recent surveys conducted by the AFP, a staggering 65% of members face challenges related to depot charging installations, while 49% encounter barriers when it comes to home charge points. These statistics highlight the urgency of finding practical solutions to facilitate the electrification of fleets.
This new service is set to function as an informal online database that connects fleet operators with available chargers from other companies. By fostering a spirit of cooperation among fleet managers, the AFP is tapping into a willingness among 60% of van fleets, who are open to making their chargers accessible to other operators. This collaborative approach not only mitigates the financial burden associated with public charging networks but also creates a supplementary income stream for charger owners.
The service’s launch will offer a flexible framework for commercial arrangements, with the AFP poised to provide guidance where necessary. A more structured digital platform is also in the pipeline, which will enable fleets to register, search for, and book charging sessions with ease. This model draws inspiration from existing platforms like Co-Charger, which allows homeowners to monetize their unused charging points by sharing them with other EV drivers.
In terms of pricing, the AFP has set a maximum charge of 40p per kWh for energy usage, which is significantly lower than the current market averages of 80p for rapid charging and 56p for slower charging options. This pricing strategy not only incentivizes charger owners but also makes EV charging more affordable for fleets, as highlighted by the latest data from the Zapmap Price Index.
The AFP’s chair, Paul Hollick, expressed optimism about the project, stating, “If we can make the platform work, it should be quite a substantial boost for fleet EV charging.” While acknowledging that this solution may not completely eliminate charging challenges across the country, it certainly offers a valuable alternative to existing charging methods, such as home installations and public charging stations.
This initiative comes at a time when the EV market is rapidly expanding, with industry experts noting the necessity for robust infrastructure to support this growth. A report from BloombergNEF recently projected that EVs could comprise up to 58% of global passenger vehicle sales by 2040, underscoring the urgent need for accessible charging solutions.
In addition to enhancing the charging experience for fleets, this matchmaking service could also play a crucial role in easing the transition for businesses considering electrification. With many companies grappling with the cost implications of public charging networks, the AFP’s initiative could serve as a vital bridge, allowing businesses to benefit from a more interconnected and cooperative charging ecosystem.
As the landscape of electric mobility continues to evolve, the AFP’s matchmaking service stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in overcoming barriers to adoption. By providing fleets with the tools they need to thrive in an electric future, this initiative not only supports the transition to greener transportation but also paves the way for a more sustainable and economically viable charging infrastructure.
