Healthcare equipment maker B. Braun has seen 97% of its company car drivers whose vehicles have come up for renewal switch to plug-in hybrids, following an initiative with leasing company Alphabet GB.
Alphabet has been B. Braun’s sole fleet supplier for more than a decade, and offered consultancy when B. Braun decided to move to a whole-life cost model for its previously all-diesel fleet, and allow its drivers to take advantage of cheap BIK tax rates for electrified vehicles.
The companies spoke directly to drivers, setting up virtual clinics to understand their needs, and carrying out an internal survey to encourage questions about plug-in hybrids and develop a set of FAQs.
Following the strong take-up of plug-in hybrids, B. Braun is now planning to work with Alphabet to introduce pure EVs to its choice list.
Alphabet has also introduced its Alphabet Connect online platform to the business, allowing simplified ordering for drivers and fleet managers, as well as vehicle data access.
B. Braun fleet manager and procurement support Claire Richardson said: “It’s been invaluable to provide our drivers with PHEV options, so they can not only embrace cost savings and get the vehicles they want, but also support the wider business objectives.
“This is something we couldn’t have implemented on our own and is why we continue to work so closely in partnership with Alphabet, which forms an extension of the B. Braun team and has done for over ten years.
“Alphabet truly understands our company and our drivers, and are the EV experts we need to continually transform and develop both our business and fleet strategy. These are important changes for the future of B. Braun, and we’re excited to see what more we can achieve together.”
