With a market share of 17.2% and sales up 131% year on year in 2021, electric vehicles are fast becoming the future of travel. And with government grants incentivising buyers, there’s never been a better time to transition to electric cars.
Sustainable development is at the forefront of every organisation’s agenda amid the climate emergency. Some brands build their reputation on their green and sustainable credentials, and switching to EVs is a significant part of that strategy.
If businesses get behind the net-zero approach, they can accelerate the transition to electric vehicles across the wider population – not just within industries.
When must all cars be electric in the UK?
With the government announcing a two-phase rollout of electric vehicle initiatives, the phase-out of sales of new petrol and diesel cars has been brought forward to 2030.
Furthermore, the second step of the plan will mean all new cars and vans will be entirely zero-emission at the exhaust from 2035.
However, with the climate emergency at code red, there is a chance that these dates may be brought forward. Consequently, there has never been a better time to switch your business to EVs and meet sustainability goals.
Benefits of switching your company to electric vehicles
Switching your business to electric cars isn’t just good for the planet; it can also benefit your business.
Sustainable business goals are at the forefront of every industry, and electric vehicles shape a significant part of the policy. Transport accounts for one-fifth of carbon emissions globally, so it is plain to see that electric cars must be embraced sooner rather than later.
Below are four key reasons to make the switch and reap the benefits before the 2030 deadline.
Reduce costs
With electric vehicles charging free in many locations across the UK, switching to an electric fleet can save fuel costs. Furthermore, the UK government offer grants for the installation of charging points – saving you additional money.
In addition, combustion engines are more prone to faults compared to EVs as they have more mechanical parts likely to break. Therefore, an electric fleet can save on maintenance in the long term.
For a bonus, productivity can see an increase with the implantation of at work charging. This way, fleets are always fully charges – saving time on the road.
Meet sustainability goals
The UK government has a net-zero goal of 2050, meaning businesses need to enhance their sustainability credentials ahead of time. Every business should have sustainable development goals, and switching to an electric fleet is a big step towards being net-zero.
By switching to an electric fleet and moving towards net-zero, you can strategically meet your sustainability goals at your own pace. By 2050, there may be a scramble to meet sustainable development goals, so don’t get left behind.
Increase employee satisfaction
By removing exposure to harmful pollutants, you can improve your fleet drivers’ health and safety at work. Furthermore, by introducing electric vehicles to your fleet, you can prove that you’re taking the climate challenge seriously.
Not only do EVs improve your green credentials, but they can improve employee satisfaction as they will see the green values of the company. Employee satisfaction, in turn, will lead to an increase in employee retention.
Build a reputation
By committing to a net-zero approach, you can improve your green reputation and stand in the community – as well as with customers and clients. As a result, some businesses have gone the extra mile and have committed to B-Corp certification.
Certified B Corporations “balance purpose and profit” and are committed to helping the planet as well as their profits. Today, the population is driven to work for and buy from businesses committed to a good cause. B Corp Certification can help build credibility and value for your business.
Reputation is everything in business, and proving you’re on board with saving the planet is a fantastic way to show your customer base that you care. In addition, you can prove that there are humans behind the brand by caring about a global issue.
Takeaways
Switching to electric vehicles may seem like an expense you could live without, but by 2030 it will be a necessity. Sustainable development is the driving force of most industries in 2021 as the climate emergency worsens.
However, despite the initial expense, it’s clear that many benefits are available to businesses that get ahead. Plus, with government grants, it’s never been more affordable.
The government grants may not always be available as the deadline gets closer, so be sure to take advantage while you can.
