Efficient fleets can save costs by adopting smartcharging
A government-funded study has found that better communication of smart EV charging benefits could help fleets take full advantage of the technology. The research, conducted by the Energy Saving Trust, highlighted that fleet managers and the public often lack a clear understanding of what smart charging is and how it works.
Smart charging allows EVs to charge when electricity demand is lower or when supply exceeds demand, such as overnight. While 70-90% of home EV chargers already use this method, workplace smart charging is far less common, with only 12% of employees able to schedule their own charging and a quarter relying on their employer to set charging times.
Fleet managers remain focused on transitioning to electric vehicles rather than optimising charging. The report found concerns over logistics, perceived effort, and uncertainty about cost savings. However, it suggests that fleet managers keen to cut costs and meet environmental targets could benefit from adopting smart charging where vehicles remain parked for long periods.