Employers should consider parking with chargepoints for EVs

Demand for parking spaces at work with chargepoints is expected to increase following company car tax changes, and Cenex is advising that companies look to install charging infrastructure and implement policies to manage demands and prevent conflicts.

From 6th April 2020, company car tax on EVs will drop to 0%, making them more affordable for employees.

Organisations who offer company cars for their employees will have to manage the likely impacts of the Benefit in Kind changes on a practical level and they should start to prepare for them.

More EVs will need more chargepoints, especially at destinations outside of the motorway network, and increase the demand of chargepoint spaces at places of work.

Before making the shift to electric cars, drivers will need to understand the technical specifications, notably battery ranges, to ensure their driving requirements are met, and notify employers of any intention to switch.

As well as managing the availability of chargepoint spaces at the office, policies should also be considered for who gets priority, the cost of charging and expensing home charging, and the impact this might have on the business.

Rob Anderson, Senior Fleet Specialist at Cenex, said: “Anything that encourages the uptake of EVs is to be applauded. This change has long been needed as the previous Benefit in Kind tax regime didn’t benefit low emission vehicle users.

"Now there’s a huge amount to gain and more company car drivers are likely to make the switch, if not for the environment but for the cash in their pocket.

"These tax changes will incentivise electric cars, helping the UK and organisations become more sustainable and achieve their net zero targets, but you’ve got to plan ahead to ensure a smooth transition for everyone.

"If companies start to see that shift, from current petrol and diesel company car users into electric vehicles, they’ll have to investigate the possibility of installing more chargepoints at work.

"In addition, if employees shift from cash for car allowances, or are new to the company car scheme, and select an electric car because of that tax benefit, then you have even more demand.

"Companies need to assess if they have the space to install new chargepoints – be it standard or rapid – and then implement policies to manage those spaces.

"The last thing you want is for drivers to hog a chargepoint once they have sufficient power, therefore blocking those who require a full charge.”