Are You Prepared for EV Maintenance? Fleet Management Companies Are

The vehicular world is at the cusp of an electric revolution. Electric Vehicles (EVs), once a far-off dream, are now becoming the mainstream choice for modern fleets. From the Ford E-Transit and Rivian cargo vans to quirky EVs like the Honda Autonomous Work Vehicle to whatever these are, work-ready electric vehicles are no longer a rarity on the road. But with this new wave of sophisticated tech comes the inevitable question — are you ready to manage the maintenance of these complex electronic systems? Don’t worry; not many companies aside from fleet management companies are. 

Fleet management companies saw the rise of commercial EVs years ago. Companies like Fleet Advisor are already one step ahead. With a knowledgeable fleet management service by your side, you can start planning your future fleet now. 

Why are EVs good for fleets?

Adopting EVs for fleet usage is more than just a trend —  it’s a calculated and future-focused decision. While it’s true that fleet vehicles accumulate miles rapidly, EVs stand out by demanding far less maintenance than their internal combustion counterparts. With fewer parts to worry about, there is less need for maintenance, such as oil changes. In fact, EVs go in for maintenance so infrequently that EV owners have to be proactive about getting tires rotated, a service usually performed when getting an oil change.

Despite being quiet, efficient, and sleek, EVs can be just as rugged as standard combustion engine vehicles. Rivian’s trucks are proof, and that’s just the start. Ford’s F-150 Lightning and GMC’s Hummer EV both have big truck-guy energy — there’s nothing delicate about these trucks. Upcoming trucks from Tesla, Chevy, GMC, Ford, and Toyota will revolutionize fleets in the coming years. 

Operating an eco-friendly fleet is not just good for the planet; it’s also a significant branding statement. Companies can proudly claim a reduced carbon footprint. Yet, if that’s not enough to sway you, maybe a tax credit will. Governments globally are offering attractive tax breaks to organizations that purchase electric vehicles, making them more financially appealing. In the US, the IRS states that under the Commercial Clean Vehicle Credit, businesses that purchase a commercial EV can get a tax credit of up to $40,000. With the tax credit, EVs are even more cost-effective for fleets. 

EVs have a huge potential for savings despite their higher initial cost. Electricity prices may fluctuate but are ultimately not as volatile as gas prices, and though EV maintenance may be more expensive because it requires specially-trained mechanics, the rate of maintenance is much lower. Throw in those hefty tax breaks that can substantially offset the initial purchasing costs, and EVs quickly start to look like the better option for fleets. 

You Need a Professional to Maintenance an EV

While EVs generally promise fewer issues, they are still machines that require the occasional maintenance. Your EVs may be involved in an accident, or parts like batteries may wear faster than you expect. Though a properly maintained EV can go for roughly a decade before needing its batteries replaced, according to Car and Driver, it will eventually happen. 

Whatever the case, EV maintenance is something you want to leave for the pros. Repairing an EV when you lack training could lead to serious consequences. The high voltage systems in EVs can be dangerous to work on, and possibly even fatal. You could also damage the vehicle if you don’t know what you’re doing. 

EVs work differently and require special training, resulting in repairs that cost a lot more than a non-EV. When you factor in the price of EV parts, which are more expensive because they’re harder to find, you can face an unpleasant repair bill. Still, you want to make sure the right person is working on your EV. 

Not every garage or fleet management company is equipped to handle EVs. Even among car dealers, EV repair and maintenance customer satisfaction is woefully lower than it is for internal combustion engines, according to Jalopnik (via J.D. Power’s Customer Service Index Study). You want to entrust your fleet’s EVs to experts who won’t damage it or, worse, get injured in the process. 

What Can a Fleet Management Service Do for Your EVs?

Choosing a fleet management service that’s adept at handling EVs is essential. From minor fixes to major issues, they’ve got you covered. A fleet management company that specializes in EVs can perform standard routine maintenance that keeps your EVs running well past the first battery replacement. With frequent battery checks, fleet management technicians can spot battery issues early, which can prevent accidents like exploding batteries. And if your EV needs bigger repairs, you’ll have a certified EV mechanic you can trust. 

With EVs relying more on software than internal combustion vehicles, vehicles must be updated frequently. Falling behind on updates can be detrimental to an EV. Updates patch bugs that can cause issues with performance or leave your EV exposed to hackers. On the flip side, a software update can also be a harbinger of good. EV software or firmware updates can manage everything from battery consumption and engine efficiency to top speed and range. 

Electric Vehicle Fleet Management Is the Future

Electric Vehicles are joining fleets in higher numbers every year. According to this report from Strategic Market Research, the electric commercial vehicle market size is expected to increase by a compound annual rate growth of 9.51% by 2030. As more manufacturers expand commercial EV options, it’s easier than ever to find a commercial vehicle that suits your needs at the right price. Whether you run a fleet of delivery vans or cargo trucks, making the switch to EV is a cost-effective decision that will put more money in your pocket. Their benefits far outweigh the initial hesitations companies might have. 

With the right fleet management company by your side, such as Fleet Advisor, you can guarantee the longevity of the EVs in your fleet. If you’re contemplating adding EVs to your fleet, or if you already have them, it’s time to get in touch with experts who truly understand them. Let’s talk about the future of your fleet.