## Workplace Charging Solutions for Electric Vehicle Fleets
As the prices of electrified car ownership continue to rise, two of the world’s largest EV charging firms are focusing on simpler installations, longer uptime, and more cost control to help combat these challenges. This is particularly important for company car drivers who are facing reduced mileage rates and rising home energy prices.
### The Importance of Fleets in the UK’s EV Market
Fleets play a crucial role in the UK’s plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and electric vehicle (EV) markets, accounting for over 80% of new PHEV and EV registrations in 2023. However, charging costs remain a significant challenge for fleet owners. The Advisory Electric Rate (AER) for EVs, set by HMRC, has been criticized for not keeping up with fluctuating energy prices. While petrol and diesel rates are reimbursed based on the vehicle’s engine size, there is only one AER for EVs.
Moreover, the AER was recently reduced from 8p to 7p, just before Ofgem’s new home energy price cap, which will raise the cost of electricity by almost 10% to 24.5p per kWh from 1 October. Public charging can cost as much as 80p per kWh, or 24p per mile, which is more than three times the AER.
### Workplace Charging as a Cost-Effective Solution
To address these challenges, companies like Konect and Siemens are offering workplace charging solutions that can help fleets manage costs while supporting company car drivers. Konect, a subsidiary of Gilbarco Veeder-Root, specializes in turn-key charging solutions for electric car fleets. They provide consultation, project management, in-life maintenance, and integration with on-site energy systems, all from a single supplier.
According to Deepesh Nayanar, head of global fleet e-mobility at Konect, many customers are eager to invest in electrification but are unsure how to support and maintain charge points on an ongoing basis. Workplace charging not only helps manage costs but also boosts employee morale by demonstrating a commitment to the overall move to electrification. Additionally, employers can provide free workplace charging without taxing the energy as a benefit-in-kind, even if the EV is privately owned and used for personal trips.
### Streamlining Infrastructure for LCV and HGV Fleets
Siemens has developed the Depot360 product, which focuses on LCV and HGV fleets. This solution allows operators to outsource the design, installation, and management of workplace chargers for a monthly fee, eliminating the need for upfront investment. By having the infrastructure in place, businesses can reduce emissions in their fleet and encourage employees to make the switch to EVs for their personal use as well.
Bernard Magee, Siemens’ managing director of e-mobility, acknowledges that building out this infrastructure can be complex and is often a barrier for businesses. However, by leveraging technology and outsourcing the management of workplace chargers, companies can become EV-ready and reap the benefits of electrification.
### Conclusion
As the prices of electrified car ownership continue to rise, it is crucial for fleet owners to find cost-effective solutions for charging their electric vehicles. Workplace charging offers a viable option for managing costs while supporting company car drivers. By partnering with companies like Konect and Siemens, fleets can simplify the installation process, ensure longer uptime, and have better control over charging expenses. These solutions not only benefit fleets but also contribute to reducing emissions and encouraging the wider adoption of electric vehicles.
