Mitie Group: Transport/Fleet Management Project of the Year

At a glance: 
Who:  Mitie Group
What:  Electric vehicle (EV) transition
Where:  Across Mitie’s operations, including the UK and overseas locations
When: Initiated in 2018, with the first EV joining the fleet in May 2019; ongoing efforts with targets set for March 2024 and March 2025
Why: To reduce environmental impact by targeting fleet emissions 

The Challenge: 

Mitie’s vehicle fleet contributes more than 98% of its overall Scope 1 and 2 emissions, highlighting the urgent need to reduce environmental impact. Despite facing supply shortages due to Covid-19, Mitie has committed to achieving a 65% electric fleet by March 2024 and an 80% electric fleet by March 2025. 

The Solution: 

Mitie initiated its EV transition in 2018, with the first EV joining the fleet in May 2019. Currently, with 3,700 EVs comprising 51% of the fleet, Mitie is actively driving toward its targets. To ensure future EVs meet operational needs, Mitie held a manufacturer event in March 2023 and continues to engage with the vehicle manufacturing industry. Mitie’s comprehensive Plan Zero (PZ) strategy aims for net-zero operational emissions by 2025 and net-zero non-operational emissions by 2035, underscoring its commitment to sustainability. 

How it works:  

Mitie’s EV transition emphasises environmental performance, anchored by an ‘EV first’ policy and regular EV roadshows to support drivers. Efforts extend to optimising ICE vehicle efficiency and providing comprehensive training on fuel-efficient driving and EV integration. With more than 2,800 chargers installed across various locations and active engagement in policy advocacy, Mitie ensures infrastructure readiness for EV adoption.  

The company actively collaborates with manufacturers, conducting trials and participating in working groups to tailor future EV designs and integrate specialist vehicles into its fleet. Leveraging technologies like AI dashcams, Mitie enhances safety and efficiency, reducing incidents by 60% while exploring further innovations for fleet optimisation. 

The results:  

Mitie’s EV fleet stands as one of the largest in the UK. By transitioning an additional 977 EVs in FY23, Mitie has annually saved more than 2,780 tonnes of CO2 emissions. Mitie’s fleet team now oversees its overseas fleet, spanning locations such as Cyprus, Spain, Ascension Islands, Falkland Islands, Northern Ireland, Southern Ireland and Gibraltar, with the goal of achieving a 50% electric fleet.  

Mitie is on track with its initiative, surpassing the FY22 target with a 33% electric fleet and hitting the FY23 goal of a 45% electric fleet, while progressing toward the FY24 target. With lower electricity costs for EVs compared to diesel and petrol, Mitie saved £3,273,690 during FY23 through its EV transition. 

The success of Mitie’s EV transition has bolstered its position as a market leader in decarbonisation, opening access to new markets and expanding the customer base. 

The Judges said:  

“Mitie has made hugely impressive progress against tackling one of the most material areas of sustainability impact for its business, in pursuit of its science-based net-zero goals. Structured engagement with vehicle manufacturers, to ensure their designs meet the company’s specialist needs is helping to drive forward transformation across the industry.”