Reducing the UK’s carbon footprint is high on the political agenda. With approximately a quarter of UK domestic carbon emissions coming from transport, it is clear that the UK leasing industry, responsible for 6.4% of all vehicles on UK roads, has a significant part to play.
As a sector, it is beginning to see success in this area by promoting the use of low-emission vehicles, but more can be done.
A new report published by Leaseplan UK explores how ultra low-emission vehicles (ULEVs) can become a viable option for fleets and subsequently help to cut carbon emissions.
We believe it is crucial for ULEVs to become celebrated, not only for their green credentials but as a cost-effective and desirable fleet vehicle of choice. From past experience we have seen that if a vehicle becomes popular for fleets, it often drives popularity on a national scale.
As the issue climbs up the political agenda, businesses will have to weigh up the pros and cons of adopting ULEVs as part of their fleet.
Various initiatives are in place to influence uptake, most notably the plug-in grants that provide 25% towards the cost of a ULEV. Other governmental programmes include the Plugged-In Fleets Initiative (PIFI) 100, which offers free assessments to organisations to see how electric vehicles can work for them. A variety of tax incentives are also in place to make an electric fleet more desirable.
In order to promote ULEVs effectively, leasing companies must now develop their internal expertise to understand which vehicle, funding or technology option is best-suited for each client.
To support clients considering the move, mechanisms should be in place that ensure a smooth transition. This could include specialist driver training, a risk management policy or a loan van scheme, which Leaseplan developed to allow clients access to combustion-engine vehicles when they needed to make longer journeys.
Fundamentally, it is crucial that leasing companies and the Government work together in order to create a nationwide mechanism that supports and encourages the use of ULEVs.
Only then will fleet and consumer appetite be large enough to generate real change and, consequently, a clean transport network.
