Navigating change: Electric Vehicles in small businesses

In recent years, the electric vehicle (EV) revolution has been gaining momentum, with a growing number of environmentally-conscious consumers and businesses making the switch.

As we strive to reduce our carbon footprint and transition towards a greener future, electric vehicles have become a central player in the sustainability game. Small and medium businesses are no exception, with many leading the charge by integrating EVs into their fleets.

However, introducing electric vehicles to drivers who haven't experienced them before, presents unique change management challenges.

In this article, we’ll explore these challenges and provide insights to help your businesses navigate this transition successfully.

Change resistance

One of the biggest challenges in introducing electric vehicles to drivers who are unfamiliar with them, is the resistance to change. People often resist change because it disrupts their established routines and comfort zones.

In the case of any fleet, drivers may have become accustomed to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, making them resistant to the idea of adopting EVs.

Overcoming this resistance requires a carefully crafted change management strategy. To mitigate change resistance, organisations should initiate a comprehensive educational program for their drivers.

This program should include information about the environmental benefits of EVs, cost savings, and the ease of driving and maintaining these vehicles. Hands-on training sessions and open discussions can also help drivers become more comfortable with the idea of driving EVs.

NRMA driver training programs can be tailored to suit EV drivers.

Charging infrastructure

Charging infrastructure is another significant challenge for businesses transitioning to EVs. Unlike traditional vehicles that can be refuelled at any gas station, EVs require access to charging stations. Installing charging stations at the workplace or partnering with nearby charging stations is essential for smooth operations.

Organisations should invest in charging infrastructure tailored to their needs. This might involve installing some chargers at the workplace or collaborating with trusted public charging networks.

Having a convenient and reliable charging infrastructure can alleviate the anxiety of drivers concerned about running out of power.

Range anxiety

Range anxiety is a term used to describe the fear of an electric vehicle running out of charge before reaching its destination.

This concern is prevalent among drivers who are new to EVs and unfamiliar with their range capabilities. It can be a substantial barrier for businesses considering electric vehicles, as it affects the overall trust and confidence of drivers.

To address range anxiety, Fleet Managers can prioritise EVs with longer ranges, ensuring that the vehicles can comfortably cover typical routes and work-related journeys.

It's also important to educate drivers on the actual range of the vehicles and help them understand that charging infrastructure is available to prevent unexpected setbacks.

Maintenance and repairs

Compared to traditional ICE vehicles, electric vehicles have fewer moving parts, which generally means lower maintenance costs. However, the maintenance and repair of EVs require specific knowledge and skills.

Drivers who are accustomed to ICE vehicles may be unfamiliar with the intricacies of EV maintenance. Businesses should provide training on basic EV maintenance and make sure drivers know where to turn for expert assistance.

Partnering with dealerships or service centres specialising in electric vehicles can be beneficial. Regular maintenance checks, including tyre inspections, are essential to keep the vehicles on the move.

Charging etiquette

Charging etiquette is an often-overlooked aspect of transitioning to electric vehicles. It involves considerations like sharing charging stations, unplugging when charging is complete, and ensuring all drivers have equal access to charging infrastructure.

Businesses should establish clear charging guidelines and policies to prevent misunderstandings and conflicts. This may involve creating a schedule for charging, implementing a courtesy notification system.

It’s also important to let drivers know that 80% full is considered best practice unless they’re planning a long journey.

Employee engagement

Incorporating electric vehicles into a business's operations is a substantial change that requires the active engagement of all employees, not just the drivers.

Employees may have concerns about how this transition impacts their roles, the company's environmental stance, and their own work routines.

Financial considerations

Open and transparent communication is key. Engage employees in discussions about the benefits of EV adoption, how it aligns with the company's sustainability goals, and the ways in which it will affect their daily activities.

Encourage feedback and involve employees in the decision-making process to create a sense of ownership and commitment to the change.

While electric vehicles offer long-term cost savings through reduced fuel and maintenance expenses, the initial investment in EVs and charging infrastructure can be a barrier for any business.

There are many incentives and grants available from Federal and State governments to offset the initial cost of an electric vehicle transition which could assist in the early stages.

Transition period

A smooth transition to electric vehicles does not happen overnight. It's important to acknowledge that there will be a learning curve and adjustments along the way. Develop a clear transition plan with milestones, and communicate this plan to all stakeholders.

Allow for a gradual transition, if possible, to give drivers time to adapt to the new technology and charging infrastructure.

Environmental impact

Lastly, businesses should be aware of the environmental impact of their decisions. Introducing electric vehicles is a positive step towards reducing carbon emissions, but it also raises questions about the environmental footprint of the electricity used for charging.

You can consider using renewable energy sources to power charging stations, which will align with the organisation’s sustainability goals. Additionally, you can track and report the emissions reduction efforts through the reduction in fuel to showcase the commitment to a greener future.