Mitie has launched a new Plan Zero Fleet Transition Service to help those wanting to switch their fleets to electric.

The new service aims to use Mitie’s electric vehicle (EV) know how, having rolled out over 500 EVs and installed 600 charge points in less than a year. 

The end-to-end solution will encompass all stages of EV transition, from vehicle choice to charging infrastructure, through to travel policies and maintenance. 

Pradyumna Pandit, managing director of Sustainability and Energy Services at Mitie, said: “For businesses just beginning their EV journey, making the switch can seem a daunting task. 

“With one of the UK’s most ambitious electric fleet strategies, Mitie has learnt first-hand how to tackle the challenges and capitalise on the opportunities that come with an EV rollout. 

“I am proud to be sharing our knowledge so we can support more British businesses in transitioning their own fleets to electric.” 

The Transition Service follows five key stages: 

• Developing fleet transformation model: Mitie will review the business’ transport, fleet and carbon emission profile to develop a bespoke and comprehensive fleet strategy.
• Installing a charge point network: Mitie will install charge points at workplaces and employee homes, working with its in-house team of energy experts to ensure the appropriate power infrastructure is in place.
• Transitioning existing fleet: As vehicles reach their end of life, Mitie will support their phased replacement with an EV alternative, as well as supporting the business’ wider transition – such as introducing employee travel policies and training.
• Connect, maintain and operate: After installation, charge points can be connected to Mitie’s Service Operations Centre for remote maintenance, usage and performance checks. This provides real-time data on how often charge points are used and prevents unexpected downtime.
• Generate income: Mitie can help increase the financial savings of an EV rollout by generating income, for example through public charging initiatives.  

By taking a whole life cost approach and being independent of all suppliers, the Plan Zero Fleet Transition Service can deliver a zero emissions fleet for zero additional cost, says Mitie.

In some cases, depending on fleet composition, the switch to EV can come with cost savings to the business. 

Mitie explains that the successful transition to an electric fleet requires a shift in mindset, moving from considering the fleet as a collection of vehicles to instead creating an integrated energy system, with cars and vans connected. 

In the 12 months to March 31, 2020, Mitie saved 1,351 tonnes of carbon as a result of switching vehicles to electric models. 

Mitie has committed to switching 20% of its car and small van fleet, around 700 vehicles, to electric by the end of 2020, adding an average of 75 new EVs to its fleet every month. 

With 600 additional EVs on order to join the fleet, Mitie says it is ahead of this target. 

It has also pledged to convert its entire fleet of around 5,000 vehicles to EV by 2025. 

The new service is part of Plan Zero, Mitie’s commitment to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2025 – 25 years ahead of Government’s own target.

Mitie is also a member of the UK Electric Fleets Coalition, which launched its own policy paper today calling for the Government to bring forward the ban on new diesel and petrol vehicles. 

The UK Electric Fleets Coalition, run by The Climate Group in partnership with BT Group, wants a Government target of 100% electric new car and van sales by 2030.

To find out more about Mitie's new fleet transition service, click here.