To help lease and rental customers make informed EV decisions, Ryder has made available a detailed paper on Making the Shift: What to Consider When Electrifying Your Fleet. Its sections include:

Assess Your Needs

Evaluate the specific requirements of your fleet operations to determine which vehicles can be replaced by electric alternatives. Consider factors such as range, payload capacity, charging infrastructure availability, and the feasibility of integrating EVs into existing workflows.

Research different electric vehicle models that meet the needs of your fleet. Consider factors such as charging capabilities, cargo capacity, and any specialized requirements for your industry. Compare costs, performance and features to make an informed decision.

Charging

Before integrating EVs into your fleet, conduct a thorough assessment of charging infrastructure needs. Consider factors such as the number of vehicles, their daily mileage and operational requirements to determine the type and quantity of charging stations required.

Installing charging stations may require electrical infrastructure upgrades. Consider factors like power capacity, availability of parking spaces and proximity to electrical panels when planning the charging station layout. Charging stations should be conveniently located and have minimal disruption to daily operations.

Technology

Telematics and connectivity solutions provide real-time data and insights into vehicle performance, energy consumption and driver behavior. By leveraging this information, companies can optimize fleet operations, improve efficiency, and reduce costs.

Telematics can provide accurate data on battery levels, range estimates, and charging station locations, enabling companies to plan routes effectively and ensure that vehicles stay within range of charging infrastructure.

EV Maintenance

The battery is a critical component of an electric vehicle. Companies should implement battery health management practices to ensure optimal performance and longevity. This may involve monitoring battery health indicators, performing regular battery inspections and following charging best practices.

EVs have unique components and systems that require specialized knowledge for maintenance and repair. Companies should ensure that their maintenance personnel or contracted technicians are properly trained and have the expertise in electric vehicle systems.

Incentives

Many governments are providing financial incentives and subsidies to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles. These incentives can include tax credits, grants and rebates, which help offset the higher upfront costs of electric trucks and make them more economically viable.