The EV Rally of Scotland

This summer’s EV Rally of Scotland saw teams navigate nearly 600 miles in electric vehicles as a true test of the Scottish charging network.

The first EV Rally of Scotland (EVROS) took place in 2021 to coincide with COP26, with the aim of showcasing and testing the public charging infrastructure in Scotland. Fast forward to its fourth incarnation in 2024, the Rally continued to challenge teams as they tackled nearly 600 miles over two days – taking in both areas with plenty of charging, as well as more rural areas where charging is sparse. 

Supported by Transport Scotland, The EV Rally of Scotland kicked off from Falcon Square in Inverness, hosted by The Highland Council. Once the flags were waved, teams made their way to the north coast, stopping at designated checkpoints and taking in the stunning Scottish scenery before they reached their final destination in Thurso, having completed 266 all-electric miles. 

Day two saw Teams progress across the north coast, taking in John O’Groats, before heading south, along the part-coastal ‘Electric A9’. Teams passed through Inverness, before heading to Aviemore, then down to Perth, followed by Falkirk to the finish in Edinburgh Zoo – completing 319 miles.

Teams and partners

Team Maxus were behind the wheel of its new E-Deliver 7 mid-size electric commercial vehicle, as well as the all-electric T90 Pick-Up. Maxus was also the Event Logistics Partner, providing logistics crews with electric vans to set up and break down checkpoints. 

Team AA took to the road in a Skoda Enyaq and ID Buzz. As the Rally’s Roadside Assistance Partner, The AA was on standby incase teams experienced any problems.

Drivetech meanwhile was the Rally’s Driver Training Partner, who offered eco-driving and safety tips so drivers could get the most out of their vehicles.

Evolt was the Rally’s charging partner and provided teams with access to the entire ChargePlace Scotland network with an RFID card and dedicated app.

BMW was the event’s Vehicle Partner, supplying BMW i5s and i5 tourings to the GREENFLEET media team John Curtis and Karl O’Sullivan, and journalists from The Scotsman, as well as senior management teams Jason Devoto and Colin Boyton.

Other teams that took part in the Rally were Speedy Hire, AM Phillip, MAR, Scottish Water, Motability Operations, Eagle Couriers, ScotRail, Transport Scotland and Highland Council.

Councillor Sarah Janet from The Highland Council took part, keen to see the progress that the Scottish public charging infrastructure has achieved. She said: “Electric cars are
improving all the time; the range is getting better and more and more infrastructure is being added. I’m looking forward to testing where were are today in terms of charging, particularly in areas like the Highlands, the north and the west coast.”

Jamie Dunsmore from Transport Scotland noted: “It’s been great being in a convoy of so many electric vehicles.” 

Charging innovation

The EV Rally of Scotland highlighted some innovations when it comes to charging in places where there are no public chargers available. Tronius showcased its containerised EV charging solution, the first of its kind to be manufactured in Scotland. And Norco demonstrated its Go Anywhere portable charging solution which can be used in areas that can’t get an electrical connection.

Efficient drivers

The data uncovered from the Rally showed that the most efficient drivers were team Evolt/Swarco, who achieved 113 per cent of WLTP. In joint second place was Speedy Hire and The AA/Drivetech, who both achieved 111 per cent. Third place meanwhile went to Transport Scotland, who achieved 106 per cent, beating what manufacturers say can be done.

A three-day roadshow

The EV Rally of Scotland took place after GREENFLEET Scotland, a three day roadshow that went to Edinburgh, Dundee, and Inverness.  Delegates were able to hear keynote sessions from Transport Scotland, Scottish Motor Trade Association (SMTA), ChargePlace Scotland and Association of Fleet Professionals (AFP). Other sessions were hosted by Logistics UK, Zemo Partnership, and the BVRLA.