How COVID-19 is Accelerating the Transition to Electric Vehicles

Recent research has estimated that nearly a quarter of us expect to purchase an electric vehicle (EV) or plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) for our next car.

This comes from a study by Alphabet, which reports the shift in public attitudes to electric vehicles can be attributed to environmental improvements in cities as a result of the national lockdown. It appears the pandemic has accelerated our desire for cleaner and quieter streets. CRP’s Electric Vehicle Fleet-Centred Local Energy System (EFLES) project is providing a business case for commercial fleets to integrate EVs within a Smart Local Energy System. This can unlock new revenue streams and reduce operational costs for EV fleet operators.

This movement has an impact on the fleet industry too, as over half of respondents felt delivery vans should be electric. On top of that, one in three said they would be happy to pay extra for an electric delivery vehicle. This is undeniably a challenging time for businesses and fleet managers alike. Yet, with this comes the opportunity to rethink and transform how to operate. As customers grow increasingly conscious of the impact of their deliveries, fleets must embrace cleaner alternatives to the combustion engine.

For more information, please contact CRP Air Quality Analysis Officer Abby McDougall.