Sustainability and carbon reduction are now the most common priorities for UK CV fleets, according to research by Bridgestone and Webfleet Solutions.
The survey found 45% of fleet decision makers named being green as a priority, ahead of digitalisation, named by 42% of fleets, and driver safety and cost reduction, both named by 37%.
However, the research also found that on average those surveyed believe it would be 8.7 years before van fleets were fully carbon neutral.
The survey found 36% of van fleets planned to introduce EVs during the next 12 months, while 39% will purchase energy efficient tyres.
When asked why they wanted to decarbonise, 61% of those surveyed cited a wish to protect their health and that of their family and the next generation, while 60% said they wanted greater financial support and guidance from the government.
Bridgestone EMIA north region vice president Andrea Manenti said: “These findings embody the generation-defining zeitgeist of climate change, with the road transport industry at the very epicentre of our collective efforts to secure a more sustainable future.
“Strategic action is being spurred not only by regulation, but by increasing recognition that the cost of buying, operating and maintaining EVs – their total cost of ownership – is now typically lower than for fossil-fuelled equivalents.”
Webfleet Solutions UK and Ireland regional director Beverley Wise said: “Decarbonising a vehicle fleet and making the electric transition can represent a significant change management undertaking.
“Ultra-low emission vehicle (ULEV) adoption is being incentivised with a range of measures, including a two-year extension to the plug-in van and truck grants announced in the Spring Budget – but operators clearly feel more must be done.
“As the government seeks to meet this challenge, the ecosystems of advice, shared knowledge and guidance – from support and consultancy groups to online resources, dedicated forums and events – will continue to grow.”
