Nearly a third (32%) of UK businesses are planning to invest in their first EV charging infrastructure during the next 12 months, according to research by Drax Electric Vehicles.
In addition, a survey of more than 400 decision makers also found that 48% of firms had already installed EV chargers, and that of these, 91% planned to expand their EV infrastructure over the next five years.
When asked why they wanted to invest, 60% of respondents said they were motivated by the general shift towards EVs and the need for their business to keep pace. 31% said they believed the world was moving towards electric driving, while 22% said there had been an increase in EVs across their company car fleet.
Many respondents are also said to have spoken of the associated benefits of switching to electric as a leading factor behind the decision to invest, with the most frequently cited benefits being sustainability, cost savings, and the positive impact on a company’s reputation.
When asked to name what they saw as the top three barriers to electrification, more than half said cost, ahead of insufficient government support, and concerns about the vehicles themselves, such as availability and suitability.
Commenting on the survey findings, Drax Electric Vehicles head of sales Naomi Nye said: “As an early adopter of EVs, fleets have been at the forefront of the UK’s transition away from fossil fuels towards electric. The research tells us that momentum remains strong across all sectors, but that there are still significant barriers we need to overcome.
“The next cohort of EV adopters need additional support and guidance as they navigate the unknown. They’re more risk averse than the first generation and want to be armed with as much information as possible before making a decision.
“That’s why we need to work together to create spaces where businesses can share their experiences, learn from other fleets, and connect with experts.”
