A-to-Z EV Rally: Team Webfleet

As 'Technology Partner' and with their own team, Webfleet is a crucial part of the EV Rally. GREENFLEET catches up with Richard Parker to find out how planning for this year's Rally is going, what strategy they'll be adopting, and the importance of data in running such an event

Webfleet has been involved in the Rally since it began, and we are delighted that you are joining us again this year. What made you decide to get involved again?

Webfleet's commitment to the A-Z EV Rally underscores our dedication to advancing sustainable transportation solutions and showcasing the potential of electric vehicles (EVs) in real-world scenarios.

Our participation stems from a desire to demonstrate the effectiveness of our telematics solutions in enhancing the performance and efficiency of EVs over long distances. This year, we are particularly motivated by the opportunity to further innovate and test our technologies under the unique challenges presented by the Rally's extensive route.

Our goal is to leverage our expertise to promote wider adoption of EVs and smart mobility solutions, contributing to a greener, more sustainable future.

Please could you tell us about Team Webfleet – who will be driving and in what vehicles?

We are thrilled to announce that the Webfleet Decarbonisation Team will be participating in the EV Rally 2024, showcasing our commitment to reducing CO2 emissions and transitioning to electric vehicles. Team Webfleet comprises of both staff and partners in the Webfleet network with a passion for sustainable transportation and electrification.

For the 2024 Rally, our team will be behind the wheel of the latest fully electric VW ID7 equipped with state-of-the-art Webfleet telematics technology. The ID7 has been selected for its efficiency, reliability, and advanced features that enhance driver experience and performance on the road.

Webfleet is also the Rally's 'Technology partner' – could you explain what this involves?

As the Rally's Technology Partner, Webfleet plays a pivotal role in equipping selected participating vehicles with advanced telematics solutions. Our technology provides real-time data on vehicle performance, location tracking and efficient route planning, significantly contributing to the safety and success of the Rally. We also offer insights into EV-specific metrics such as battery status and range, helping drivers optimise their performance.

By showcasing our technology in this challenging environment, we aim to demonstrate its potential to improve fleet efficiency, reduce environmental impact and support the transition to electric mobility.

What type of data will Webfleet obtain from the Rally, and why is it important to have such data?

In our role as Technology Partner, collecting detailed data from the Rally is crucial for several reasons. We aim to gather insights on EV performance under various conditions, driver behaviour and the effectiveness of our telematics solutions in real-world scenarios. Key data points include vehicle speed, battery usage and charging times and route efficiency. This data helps us refine our technology, contributing to our customers' adoption of more sustainable transportation solutions. It also provides valuable insights into the practicalities of EV adoption, informing future strategies for businesses and policymakers.

The Rally is over 1,400 miles and this year will be visiting towns and checkpoints from A to Z in alphabetical order. As you have completed the rally before, what learnings will you be bringing with you to help with your strategy this year?

Previous Rallies have taught us the importance of strategic route planning, real-time data analysis and adaptive driving techniques in maximising EV efficiency over long distances. This year, we plan to implement our latest EV route planning which takes into consideration our starting trip battery level, the distance we are travelling, charging station availability along the route and the final battery level we want to achieve when we arrive. This takes away any anxiety for our drivers allowing them to focus on driving efficiently and safely. Leveraging this technology in Webfleet, we aim to not only excel in the Rally but also to contribute valuable data and experiences that support the broader adoption of EVs.

What improvements do you hope to see in the public charging infrastructure?

We hope to see significant improvements in the density, reliability and speed of the public charging infrastructure. Key areas requiring attention include the rural and remote areas along the Rally route, where charging options are currently limited. Enhancing the network in these areas is crucial for making EVs a viable option for long-distance travel. Additionally, the adoption of universal charging standards and the implementation of fast charging stations are essential steps towards supporting the growing EV market.

For the two previous Rallies, Webfleet offset the carbon footprint from participating vehicles. Please tell us about this.

For the past two Rallies, Webfleet has helped turn the EV rally into a ‘Climate Positive’ event. In 2023 alone, and working with Justdiggit, we committed to offset 134 tonnes of CO2 from the atmosphere using our ‘Green Your Fleet’ programme. Through Justdiggit’s Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration programme, the initiative helped regreen more than 190,000m2 of dry land, retain 670,000 litres of water annually, restore more than 690 trees and positively impact the lives of 65 people in Tanzania, Africa.

The success of this initiative reflects Bridgestone’s broader commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices under its E8 initiative, driving positive environmental change beyond the automotive sector.

Why are events like the EV Rally important for driving up electric-vehicle adoption?

Events like the A-Z EV Rally play a crucial role in driving the adoption of electric vehicles by providing a high-visibility platform to demonstrate their capabilities, reliability and efficiency. They serve as a powerful tool for dispelling myths around EV performance and range, showcasing the latest advancements in EV technology and highlighting the importance of sustainable transportation solutions.

By bringing together industry stakeholders, policymakers and the public, the Rally fosters a collaborative environment that accelerates progress towards a greener future. Ultimately, such events are instrumental in shaping perceptions, encouraging innovation and promoting a shift towards more sustainable mobility options.

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