Preparing fleets for Australia ’ s electric vehicle revolution
WORDS BY NSW GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING , INDUSTRY AND ENVIRONMENT
Battery electric vehicles ( BEVs ) are cheaper to run , quieter and more energy efficient . Many businesses have already begun transitioning their fleets to BEVs to lower operating costs and reduce their emissions .
Fleets play a critical role in the evolution of BEVs in the Australian market . Fleet operators purchase approximately half of all new passenger vehicles and light commercial vehicles in New South Wales . By transitioning their fleets , it will deliver emissions reductions from the high emitting transport sector while improving their own bottom line .
Spotlight on BEV fleets – Port of Newcastle and AGL
Managing the transformation of fleets to BEVs may seem daunting . Some fleet managers have held off procuring BEVs while waiting for a suitable model , they are unsure of resale values or have challenges around charging . The Port of Newcastle and AGL however are two organisations who have made great progress .
The Port of Newcastle is well on the way to reaching their target of 100 % electrification by 2023 . Jackie Spiteri , Senior Manager , Environment Social Governance at Port of Newcastle said , “ the business case for BEVs is both financial and strategic .
“ While the Port will save $ 20,000 in fuel costs and 48 tonnes of CO2 equivalent annually once the fleet is fully electric ( which is the same as 20,870 litres of petrol consumed ), the driver for us is more about leadership and demonstrating to others that electric vehicles do work ”.
Jackie recommends a long-term view internally , suggesting that , “ engaging with employees to understand what their needs are in terms of range , power and carrying capacity is the key ….. as well as support and training postimplementation ”.
Another corporate fleet progression belongs to AGL where 10 % of its 400-plus vehicles are electric . AGL have also set an ambitious target
24 ISSUE 27 FEBRUARY 2021 / WWW . AFMA . ORG . AU