**London**: A recent survey by EVAI highlights difficulties fleet managers face with electric vehicle adoption, revealing concerns over costs, charging infrastructure and TCO metrics. Key findings show that improved data tools could accelerate transitions towards sustainable electric fleets.
A recent survey conducted by EVAI reveals critical insights into the challenges faced by fleet managers in relation to electric vehicle (EV) adoption and the use of Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) metrics. The survey, which included feedback from over 2,500 fleet executives throughout March, highlights the difficulties small and medium-sized fleet managers encounter when seeking to leverage TCO metrics in their dealings with auto dealerships and service partners.
The results show that a significant portion of fleet managers, 41%, oversee fleets comprising 51 to 100 vehicles, while 39% manage larger fleets of over 100 vehicles. Notably, 41% of these fleets have partially transitioned to electric vehicles, and an additional 40% are actively exploring options but have yet to make the switch.
The survey identifies several barriers that hinder EV adoption, with high upfront costs, concerns regarding charging infrastructure, and uncertain resale values each cited by 20% of respondents. Despite these challenges, 70% of fleet managers stated that they consider long-term operational savings when evaluating the costs associated with transitioning to electric vehicles.
In terms of TCO tracking, the survey indicated that 41% of fleet managers rigorously monitor TCO, though 40% expressed a need for improved tools to enhance their tracking efforts. Key cost factors for assessing EV TCO include the vehicle purchase price (29%) and charging infrastructure costs (21%).
The analysis of performance indicators shows that fuel and energy efficiency, alongside maintenance costs through auto dealers, are the top metrics used by fleet managers to evaluate their EV fleet performance. Notably, 41% of those surveyed indicated they would be very likely to accelerate their adoption of electric vehicles if they had access to real-time TCO insights and management tools.
Ian Gardner, Founder and CEO of EVAI, commented on the findings, stating, “We understand the frustrations fleet managers face in accessing accurate and comprehensive TCO data. By leveraging TCO metrics plus AI monitoring and analysis, combined with strong partnerships with auto dealers and service partners, fleet managers can significantly strengthen their fleet management and cost management strategies.”
The survey also revealed a strong demand for enhanced data resources, with 41% of respondents seeking cost comparisons between EVs and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles over time, and 39% desiring predictive analytics on battery performance to aid their decision-making processes.
With fleet managers expressing concerns over limited availability of predictive analytics and comprehensive cost comparisons, the need for improved tools to track TCO and optimise fleet operations is evident. The survey underscores the potential for advanced data analytics and AI-driven solutions to address these challenges and support the transition toward sustainable electric fleets.
Source: Noah Wire Services