Furniture maker Symphony is said to have reduced its fleet CO2 emissions by 43% following the introduction of hybrid vehicles.
Fleet partner JCT600 Vehicle Leasing Solutions (VLS) facilitated the move, with a 12-month consultation over the switch from a previously all-diesel fleet.
The leasing company produced a whole-life costs model for the fleet, which combined with tax benefits and fuel costs led to a new choice list being created across all grades, with multiple plug-in options per band at no extra cost.
As well as the emissions saving, it is said to have resulted in a more premium selection of vehicles and lower employee tax bills.
Since the new choice list was implemented in April, 55% of new vehicle orders have been PHEVs, and Symphony is expected to have an 85% plug-in fleet within two years.
JCT600 VLS key account manager Justin Bell said: “As part of ongoing consultancy with our customers, we continually review the market and their business objectives to ensure they have the best solutions for them and their fleet.
“Symphony, like many businesses, had reservations on how an EV fleet could work, however, by working in partnership we were able to work through any challenges and the results speak for themselves with an incredible 43% reduction in carbon emissions so far.
“Whilst an all-EV fleet may be on the horizon, it’s not right for all fleets right now. Government incentives and infrastructure investment, along with more vehicle availability, is certainly making the transition much easier for fleets to start considering the move.”
Symphony group finance director John Dunsford said: “Symphony is committed to having a strong EV offering within our car fleet. JCT600 VLS, as a long-standing partner, has provided us with clear advice and support in managing this transition.”
