The AA has agreed a deal with Mer to install home charging infrastructure for its electric patrol van drivers.

The home chargers will operate on the Mina Homecharge platform which ensures employees do not pay for charging work vehicles at home, as the employer is billed directly.

Simon Ungless, group fleet manager for the AA, said: “For our roll-out of electric patrol vans we needed a partner who could make the entire process simple and hassle-free for our drivers.

“Mer is able to provide an end-to-end solution, from procurement and installation to service and repair. Every installation to date, including my own, has been very smooth and straightforward.”

Emma Spark, head of business charging for Mer, said: “We are extremely proud to be supporting the AA’s roll-out of all-electric first response vehicles.

“While this is an ongoing process, we are already working with other elements of the AA to look at further expanding our relationship.”

Mer installs 7kW chargers at the homes of AA van drivers, enabling them to fully recharge the vehicles overnight. The smart charger also integrates with Mina Homecharge.

In addition, AA drivers can access Mer’s public charging network via the Mer Connect app.

Spark added: “Mer understands the EV charging procurement and installation process from start to finish. Our expertise coupled with our position as an independent provider enables us to go above and beyond a standard installation for the AA.

“We were able to supply the right charging infrastructure for its drivers, while also providing additional integration capabilities for the AA as a business.”

The deal with Mer comes after a dozen EVs joined the AA’s breakdown fleet of 2,500 vehicles, including three vans that are capable of mobile charging. 

Two plug-in hybrids and a hydrogen vehicle complete the new look fleet of low emission breakdown vehicles to be used by the breakdown provider.

The vehicles are part of a trial, with some used across the traditional breakdown service, whereas others will specialise on certain faults such as misfuels and completing manufacturer recalls.