Integrated platform for EV fleet transition

Municipal and commercial fleet managers are under pressure to transition to a zero-carbon operation, but often lack the necessary tools and experience to do so. We propose to develop an integrated platform for EV fleet management; specifically charging, vehicle allocation and scheduling to better support fleet managers. The aim is to help fleets transition to electrification successfully and more efficiently, whilst also streamlining EV fleet operations once electrification is implemented. The product from this feasibility study will provide a single system that enables EV fleet management to account for vehicle data (e.g. charge levels) as well as vehicle and task allocation to drivers. This will enable a 'smart' scheduling and allow vehicles to optimise charge levels and also intelligently advise charging (e.g. time, speed) based on numerous factors relating to site characteristics, charger speed, grid availability and availability and upcoming future tasks. Additionally, optimisation of routes will be layered in, for example, prioritising uphill sections of routes or energy intensive tasks when the battery charge is optimal, and charging location options along the route (if required). Challenges we have identified fleet managers face with regards to electrification involve a lack of knowledge, resistance to change, range insecurity, and high or unknown infrastructural costs (both upfront and ongoing operational). Therefore, the tool will: 1) provide knowledge via site-specific assessments, 2) provide company-specific or site-specific streamlined solutions to overcome resistance/barriers, and 3) reduce infrastructure and operational costs through making use of AI and smart applications of technology to fleet management and charging. The adoption and application of the tool will help accelerate the shift in the UK (and beyond) to low-carbon transport, helping aid a successful UK response to net-zero carbon commitments and the UK Clean Growth Strategy. Additionally, the product will help businesses and the public sector recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, through job creation in a growing market that deploys EV infrastructure, as well as increased efficiencies in fleet ops that will result in better service delivery to citizens and money-saving for municipal fleets.