In March 2023, the European Union approved the end of sales of new combustion engine cars from 2035, marking a decisive turning point for the automotive industry. From this date, only 100% electric vehicles will be able to be put on the market. This decision is part of the Paris Agreement, which aims for carbon neutrality by 2050.
The transport sector, responsible for a third of greenhouse gas emissions in Europe, is at the heart of this transformation. For companies, electrifying their vehicle fleets is no longer an option, but a strategic necessity. This change offers not only economic benefits, but also environmental and social ones. Let’s explore these benefits in detail.
1. Economic Benefits
Reduced fuel costs
One of the main economic benefits of electrifying vehicle fleets is the significant reduction in fuel costs. Electric vehicles (EVs) run on electricity, which is generally much cheaper than fossil fuels such as petrol and diesel. For example, the average consumption of an electric car is 15 to 20 kWh per 100 km, which represents around €3 to €4 for office charging and €4 to €8 for public charging. Compared to a litre of petrol at €2, this can reduce the fuel bill by up to three times. Over a year, these savings can amount to thousands of euros, particularly for companies with large fleets of vehicles.
Reduced maintenance costs
Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts than internal combustion engine vehicles, which significantly reduces wear and maintenance requirements. EVs do not have belts, oil filters, complex transmissions or exhaust systems, which simplifies and reduces maintenance costs. On average, companies can save up to 70% on maintenance costs compared to combustion vehicles. This cost reduction translates not only into direct savings, but also into reduced vehicle downtime, improving productivity and fleet availability.
Government grants and incentives
To encourage the adoption of electric vehicles, many governments offer financial grants and tax incentives. These grants can include subsidies for the purchase of electric vehicles, tax credits, VAT reductions and incentives for the installation of charging stations. For example, in France, the ecological bonus and conversion premiums can significantly reduce the cost of acquiring EVs. In addition, some regions offer specific subsidies for charging infrastructure, which can cover a significant portion of the installation costs.
Fleet Management Optimization
Fleet electrification also enables better vehicle management through EV-specific tracking and management technologies. Electric fleet management systems offer advanced features like real-time tracking, route optimization, and load management, which can lead to more efficient and cost-effective vehicle utilization.
2. Positive Impact on the Environment
Reduced CO2 Emissions
One of the most significant environmental benefits of electric vehicles (EVs) is the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Unlike combustion-engine vehicles, EVs do not emit any CO2 when they are running. This directly contributes to the fight against climate change and the reduction of air pollution. For businesses, adopting EVs in their fleets is an important step towards achieving sustainability goals and complying with increasingly stringent environmental regulations.
Use of renewable energy
By charging EVs with electricity from renewable sources such as solar, wind or hydro, the carbon footprint of vehicles can be further reduced. Businesses can install solar panels on their sites to produce some of the electricity needed to charge vehicles, reinforcing their commitment to clean energy.
Reduced noise pollution
EVs are much quieter than internal combustion engine vehicles. This reduction in noise pollution improves the quality of life in urban areas, making cities more pleasant to live in and work environments more peaceful for employees. It can also contribute to a positive brand image for the company, perceived as a responsible actor concerned with the well-being of the community.
3. Branding and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
Commitment to Sustainability
A company’s adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) strengthens its reputation by demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainability and combating climate change. By integrating green practices into their operations, companies can position themselves as leaders in environmental responsibility. This positive image is essential to attracting environmentally conscious customers and business partners who share the same sustainable values.
New Partnership Opportunities
The electrification of vehicle fleets opens up new opportunities for partnerships with other sustainable companies. Companies can collaborate with green energy suppliers, charging station manufacturers, and innovative technology companies. These partnerships can create positive synergies, improving operational efficiency and stimulating innovation.
Visibility and Positive Marketing
Sustainability initiatives, such as fleet electrification, offer opportunities for positive marketing and communication. Companies can use these actions to promote their commitment to the environment through communication campaigns, annual reports, and media events. This not only improves brand image but also attracts media and public attention, thereby increasing company awareness.
4. Legal Obligations and ESG
Regulatory Compliance
The 2019 LOM law requires companies with more than 50 employees to include a mobility component in their Mandatory Annual Salary Negotiations (NAO). Fleet electrification can help meet these legal obligations.
ESG Reports
What is ESG?: ESG refers to Environmental, Social and Governance criteria, which are essential for assessing a company’s social and environmental responsibility.
Growing importance: The 2019 European Green Deal requires increased transparency from companies in terms of sustainable development, directing capital towards sustainable models.
Legal obligations: As of 2025, certain companies will have to publish ESG reports, including large listed companies, limited liability companies, and banks.
Obligation criteria:
Balance sheet total ? €20M
Net turnover ? €40M
Workforce ? 250 employees
It should be noted that electric fleets improve ESG performance, helping companies comply with legal requirements and strengthen their image.
Conclusion
The electrification of vehicle fleets is a strategic approach for companies that want to position themselves as leaders in sustainability and innovation. Although this project involves significant changes, it offers undeniable economic, environmental and social benefits.
EVenergia is your ideal partner to support you in this transition to cleaner and more efficient mobility. Together, let’s build a sustainable future.