A new committee exploring the practicalities of electric van fleets sharing charging infrastructure has launched from the Association of Fleet Professionals (AFP).

The committee will explore ways to enable shared charging for fleets

Recent research carried out by the organisation showed over half (58%) of van fleets (58%) would consider sharing their depot or public charging infrastructure with others – and the new committee will investigate real-world ways of enabling this.

Limited charging infrastructure is a major stumbling block for van fleets wanting to switch to EVs. The AFP’s survey found the largest barriers in cost terms relate to charger installation, connection, hardware and energy.

Charger sharing could provide a valuable solution – but issues that need sorting include mapping the companies that would be interested in taking part, gaining physical access to chargers, booking time when they would be needed, and establishing how charging would be paid for.

Paul Hollick, chair of the AFP and head of the committee, said: “These are all highly practical issues and what we want to do is try to arrive at solutions that mean shared charging can be accessed and paid for easily with the minimum of work. If it becomes too onerous for the companies involved, our view is that they won’t want to take part. The whole idea relies on ease of use.”

He added that the AFP was keen to hear from fleets that would like to be involved in both the new committee and the wider shared charging initiative.

“A key part of our initial activities will simply be to work out whether it looks as though there are enough fleets interested in shared charging on a national basis to make the whole initiative viable, so we need anyone who is interested to get in touch as soon as possible.”

Earlier this month, the AFP said progressing zero-emission van deployment is a top priority for operators in 2024 as they work to overcome tricky practical and strategic issues.

Alongside problems with charging infrastructure, fleets are also being hampered by electric van technology in key areas such as payload and range. According to the AFP, the general feeling across its membership is that these issues can be resolved but it will take time and a wide range of strategies.

To contact the AFP’s shared charging committee, please email [email protected].