Entitled "Electric vehicles – the way forward?" the report is a culmination of a year-long, in-depth study by Lex Autolease's Consultancy team. The report has been published in response to the growing appetite for more information on EVs and plug-in hybrids, and the infrastructure required to support the technology.

And as new research shows that concerns over recharging and range are holding firm back from investigating the possible use of EVs for their fleet operations, Lex is urging fleets to do their homework before dismissing EVs out of hand.

A recent survey by the firm that found more than eight out of 10 (83%) FDs are worried about the lack of recharging points for EVs, while over three quarters (77%) also have reservations about the length or frequency of vehicle recharging. Meanwhile seven out of 10 (72%) say that EVs lack sufficient range between charges. 

Chris Chandler, principle consultant for Lex Autolease, said: 'FDs are worried about keeping their business moving, so the fears over access to recharging points, downtime and vehicle range are understandable. But it pays to remember that the average journey length in the UK is less than 10 miles. So, for the majority of trips, EVs are perfectly capable and much cheaper, on fuel costs, than petrol or diesel.' 

Lex Autolease also points out that governments in the UK and overseas are dealing with recharging issues with initiatives like "Plugged in Places".

Chandler added: 'This will certainly make the lives easier for city-based users of EVs, but the vehicle manufacturers are addressing the range issue too with mileage-extending models that use the combustion engine to recharge the battery while on the move.'

However, Lex said that it is clear that there will not be a dominating "one size fits all" solution and that fleets need to look at all vehicle types to see what works best for them.

'It's about selecting the right vehicle for the right circumstances and for many that will change over time, due to new technologies, cheaper battery systems, changing transport habits and the increasing cost of fossil fuels.' 

To receive a copy of the "Electric vehicles – the way forward?" report, please email: [email protected]