Ayvens

More than half of all new cars in the UK are bought by fleets, so fleet decision makers have a major role to play in furthering the EV revolution. The good news is that there is a lot to like about modern EVs, such as lower running costs, less noise and reduced tailpipe emissions, while the SMMT claims the average new model has a range of 280 miles.

They’re also popular with drivers – and not just for the ‘on the road’ experience. Many people want to work for companies that show they’re taking sustainability seriously. This is part of a wider trend across the UK, where consumers are making clear they want greener options – and to buy from brands with stronger environmental credentials.

There are tax advantages for drivers choosing EVs, such as the 3% benefit in kind band in 2025/26, and low rates until 2030.
 
There is even a range of grants to help companies get started, such as those for charging and plug-in vans.

Infrastructure is also growing, according to Zap-Map, there were 37,011 charging locations, and 73,699 charging devices connectors in December 2024 – that’s a 37% year-on-year increase. So, it’s no longer a matter of range anxiety – but that of ‘change anxiety’.

The other big challenge for EV take-up is the way the costs are perceived. Although ICE and electric cars can seem much the same when you look at them from a distance, their cost structures are very different.

Which is why a whole life cost (WLC) perspective is absolutely essential. This goes beyond the ‘ticket’ or list price of the vehicle (which is typically higher for an EV) and takes other factors into account, such as taxes, subsidies, fuel and electricity use, repair, maintenance and tyres and length of usership or ownership.

The latest Ayvens Mobility Guide revealed that the low in-life costs for EVs compensate for their higher initial investment versus an ICE model, and means they are competitive on a WLC basis in most segments – if not cheaper. This means purchasing decisions can take the wider benefits into account.
Taking the first step

At Ayvens, we recognise that electrification can seem daunting for fleets. Our expert team has helped thousands of businesses navigate this fast-changing regulatory and technological landscape, and we’re here to support your next steps. Find out more at ayvens.com

Discover more:
Explore: EV Tools and Insights ayvens.com
Listen: Fleet Navigator Podcast podbean.com
Good to know: GreenFleet 2022 ‘Leasing Company of the year’

Sources:
www.zap-map.com/ev-stats/ev-market
www.ayvens.com/en-gb/discover-electric-driving/