Lead the Shift to Electric Company Cars

Many companies have ambitious electrification goals for their company fleet. Part of that journey is to create excitement among company car drivers to make the switch towards partially or fully electric vehicles. Some colleagues may already be there, while some may still feel hesitation for different reasons. In this article, we will provide compelling arguments for fleet managers to use, practical strategies, and hands-on advice to inspire and support employees in going electric.

Superior driving and comfort experience
One of the strongest arguments for electrified cars is the enhanced driving experience. Electric cars deliver instant torque and impressive acceleration, providing a responsive and dynamic ride. The smooth and quiet operation of an electric car also makes for a more comfortable journey. In addition, electric cars allow access to low-emission zones in cities where combustion cars may be restricted or subject to extra charges. Fleet managers can play a decisive role here: encourage employees to book test drives and provide clear instructions on where to turn to test drive the cars on the policy. Hands-on experience is often the most powerful motivator.

Overcome range anxiety
A common hesitation among drivers is the fear of running out of charge. However, battery technology has advanced rapidly, and most modern electric cars deliver ranges that easily cover daily drives and beyond. For longer business trips, the growing network of fast-charging stations usually makes it simple to recharge during a lunch break or quick coffee stop. Companies can further reduce uncertainty by offering charging stations at work, helping ensure employees can leave the office ready for their next journey.

Lower costs, greater benefits
Electrified cars can also make financial sense. Many countries offer tax advantages and lower benefit-in-kind values for electric cars, making them more attractive for company car drivers. Charging an electric car can generally also be cheaper than filling up with petrol or diesel.

Go for zero
Environmental consideration is a compelling argument. Driving with zero tailpipe emissions helps reduce air pollution. By going electric, company car drivers can make a more conscious choice, contributing to better air quality where the live, work and drive. All while enjoying the smooth, quiet, and guilt-free pleasure of tailpipe emission-free driving.

Designed for more time on the road
Downtime is annoying for both employees and companies. Electric cars can require less maintenance than petrol and diesel cars due to fewer moving parts and no oil changes. Fully electric Volvo cars can also have longer service intervals compared to our mild hybrids and plug-in hybrids – two years or 30 000 km, whichever occurs first.

If not a fully electric car, then why not a plug-in hybrid
If above arguments have not won everyone over, offering also plug-in hybrid options on the company car policy are a good balance and transition plan. Employees can then drive electric most of the time, and hybrid when needed. It can be a smooth step toward full electrification.

Practical tips for getting ahead
To conclude, there are plenty of strong reasons to go electric as we all know, but how can fleet manager effectively share this message and inspire drivers to get on board? Here are some tips to help move electric car adoption forward.

• Host informal presentations or Q&A sessions with for example the fleet manager or current electric car drivers to share their experiences, either live or via the corporate intranet.
• Arrange test drive events together with local retailers. Let employees try out electric cars during work hours, at a local dealership or potentially by borrowing some electric cars that can be available at the office for a period of time.
• Organize showcase days by displaying different electric car models at the office with car brand representatives available.
• Make electric car options part of the company car briefing for new hires.
• Use e-mail newsletters and intranet articles to share updates, benefits, offers, testimonials from electric car drivers, etc.
• Approach your car brand fleet partners for educational and inspirational material to spread the knowledge about the everyday life with an electric car. To access the Volvo Cars electric car onboarding kit for company car drivers, please reach out to your local Volvo Cars fleet manager.