Switching to electric vehicles could save London businesses £200m

London based businesses could save £200m if 10% of their vans registered in the capital were replaced with electric models, according to new figures from the Energy Saving Trust (EST).


The analysis has revealed potential fuel savings of 75% to organisations and businesses by turning to electric vehicles.

Additional savings include 100% capital allowances, the plug-in vehicle grant and no Congestion Charge in Central London – Congestion Charge savings equate to around £2200 per year per van.

Following a commitment from the Mayor of London Boris Johnson, there are now more than 1300 publicly accessible charge points in the Greater London area as part of the Source London scheme.

EST says this is making electric vehicles a more practical alternative for London businesses with fleets that travel in and around the city.

EST knowledge manager, Caroline Watson, says: “There is a strong business case for the adoption of electric vehicles and this has been shown through our free analysis of business fleets. The financial benefits through going electric are clear and relevant to all businesses, whether you’re in the private or public sector or an SME or a larger organisation.

“Through the Plugged-in Fleets Initiative we have already demonstrated big savings through conservative estimates of just ten per cent of vans registered in London. These could be even greater if more businesses begin to recognise the benefits of going electric,” added Watson.

The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson added: “It’s clear that London’s businesses can make big savings by converting their fleets to run on innovative electric technology. In turn, they will be helping to improve the capital’s air quality, reduce carbon emissions and support jobs in this sector.

“By ensuring there is always somewhere convenient for drivers to recharge their vehicles we are making it easier for businesses to make the switch. My plans for the introduction of an Ultra Low Emission Zone from 2020 will further stimulate the market and give business an even greater incentive to adopt green technology,” said Johnson.

Leigh Stringer

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