In a pivotal event for the green transport revolution, Webfleet, Bridgestone’s globally trusted fleet management solution, recently hosted Fleet Decarbonisation Live.

This landmark gathering brought together a panel of industry experts – Sam Clarke from GRIDSERVE Sustainable Energy, S-J Mitchell of OVO Energy, Richard Parker of Webfleet, George Newton from Iveco and Gary Powell from Bridgestone – to address some of the pressing questions and challenges faced by fleet operators embarking on the journey to reduce their carbon footprint.

The panel provided invaluable insights into overcoming initial hurdles, exploring sustainable fuel alternatives and optimising electric vehicle operations, offering guidance to fleets transitioning towards a more sustainable future.

1. How can I overcome the challenges when starting to decarbonise my fleet?

Transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs) is often the default consideration, but it can be a challenging step for many fleet operators. Indeed, almost half (46%) of the Fleet Decarbonisation Live audience were found to be only just beginning their electrification journey.

As a starting point the panel suggested that fleets should look to improve the mpg of their existing vehicles to reduce their carbon footprint.

There are always small, incremental changes that can make a big difference. Simple adjustments, such as better route planning, can lead to substantial improvements.

Electrifying an entire fleet, particularly of heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), can be a daunting undertaking but focusing on smaller, immediate changes can pave the way for larger transformations.

Vehicle insights from telematics solutions were said to be invaluable for both the electric transition and for optimising the performance of an EV fleet, with data-driven solutions helping businesses manage everything from charging cycles to energy availability.

When it comes to assessing battery range, real-world testing of vehicles before committing, the panel pointed out, is essential. Relying solely on WLTP figures can be misleading, especially for vehicles carrying heavy payloads.

The panel also advised fleets to collaborate with industry peers on best practices and to consider shorter lease cycles for EVs so they can stay up to date with fast-evolving technology.

2. Where does hydrogen sit in the sustainable fuel race?

The panel pointed out that creating hydrogen energy from electricity is an inefficient process, resulting in energy loss of up to 70 per cent.

There is also a current a lack of availability of both vehicles and infrastructure to make hydrogen a feasible option.

Nevertheless, investments in this area are being made by vehicle manufacturers, and hydrogen may eventually prove a viable solution for HGVs.

3. Is there still a place for hybrid technology?

Although hybrid technology was instrumental in the past for bridging the gap to pure electric vehicles, its relevance, the panel suggested, has diminished as full battery electric technology has advanced, particularly for longer journeys.

4. Should fleet drivers be educated on electric vehicles?

According to the panel, driver training is paramount as drivers look to adapt to the new technology.

Providing fact sheets, FAQs and e-learning modules during vehicle handovers can offer key reminders on safety and eco-friendly driving techniques. Ongoing two-way communication, either one-on-one or in team settings, can also help address driver concerns.

In-cab stickers, meanwhile, can be used to remind drivers of important learnings, such as the importance of driving in eco mode or informing them about charging times.

Telematic data can also play a pivotal role in educating drivers on maximising energy efficiency, with driving metrics such as acceleration patterns, and eco mode and air conditioning usage, needing to be carefully monitored.

Gamification strategies, such as driver performance league tables, supported by telematics data, can help reinforce energy-efficient driving habits.

5. What are the biggest obstacles to fleet decarbonisation?

Resistance among many individuals to adopting alternative fuel solutions is a significant challenge. Transitioning just one internal combustion vehicle can be a crucial first step.

Maintaining correct air pressure in EVs was also said by the panel to be vital. Underinflated tires can severely impact EV performance, discouraging fleet transitions. Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) play a crucial role here.

Engaging senior leadership teams was also said to be necessary, albeit challenging, with decarbonisation needing to be viewed as a collective journey involving all relevant stakeholders.

Although costs are invariably regarded as a blocker, fleets should not lose sight of the long-term benefits to both the business bottom line and the environment.

6. How can you overcome a potential loss of productivity from running an EV fleet?

Businesses need to find ways to adapt to the capabilities of their EVs, in the same way they adapt to other business and technological developments.

Operationally, they should assess the optimal times for charging and maintenance, such as during drivers’ lunch breaks or while the complete administrative tasks. Understanding and planning around EV capabilities is the cornerstone to helping mitigate productivity losses.

Watch our recent Fleet Decarbonisation Live event, where a panel of experts answered burning questions around decarbonisation in a live Q&A format.