Discover more in our interview with Rafe Briton, The Lubrication Expert, and David Hall, Chief Technology Officer at Gulf.
Key summary
- Fleet managers must navigate the complexity of mixed fleets, balancing ICE, EV, and hydrogen vehicles with different requirements.
- Key challenges include vehicle capability differences, charging infrastructure, and the need for specialised maintenance and training.
- The future lies in data-driven, predictive maintenance and careful planning to optimise efficiency and reduce costs.
Making the switch from standard combustion engines to electric vehicles and alternative fuels is a gradual process, not an instant one. In reality, fleets will operate with a mixture of fuels and technologies for years before fully making the switch. However, this transition can be complex to manage.
Fleet managers are central to making the transition to alternative fuels a successful one, so we’ll cover some of the challenges you may face and how to manage them.
The rise of mixed fleets
Mixed fleets include vehicles made up of internal combustion engines (ICE), electric (EV), and hydrogen-powered vehicles. While making the transition to an EV fleet, having a mixed fleet is unavoidable in the short-to-medium term, and having a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to fleet management no longer works. That’s because different technologies and engine types have different requirements, so fleet managers have to manage multiple vehicle types.
Key operational challenges for fleet managers
Some of the many operational challenges that fleet managers face include rising costs, compliance, driver safety, retention and adopting new technologies. However, with mixed fleets, there are two key challenges you will face.
Vehicle capability differences
EVs need to be charged at fairly regular intervals and have range limitations, which may be unsuitable for distance driving. Additionally, heavier payloads will use more energy, reducing driving time even further.
Refuelling vs charging infrastructure
Traditional ICE vehicles can be easily refuelled quickly at most fuel stations. However, different considerations should be made for electric vehicles, including:
- Need for depot or home charging
- Planning energy supply and charging schedules
- Infrastructure investment considerations
This impacts the way your fleet operates, so there is much more to think about than simply replacing vehicles.
Maintenance & training requirements
Different vehicle technologies have different maintenance protocols. That’s why it’s crucial that you have a clear understanding of EV systems and fluids and ensure technicians are trained properly before making the switch. EVs are not the same as traditional ICE vehicles, so they should not be treated the same, but with careful preparation, you can reduce unplanned downtime and errors.
The role of driver behaviour
Driving style impacts range, efficiency and vehicle longevity, so a smoother driving style will have a more positive impact on your vehicle than an erratic one. This is why driver education is essential. You should encourage:
- Smooth acceleration
- Smooth braking
- Energy-efficient driving habits
The right driver training and support are key success factors in making a smooth transition towards an EV fleet.
Managing multiple technologies in one fleet
Although traditional ICE and newer electric vehicles may look similar, they operate differently. Key differences include:
- Fueling/charging
- Maintenance needs
- Driving approach
Ensuring drivers and the wider teams are aware and prepared for these differences is essential so they can plan journeys and operate each vehicle type effectively.
The future of fleet maintenance
Fleet maintenance is becoming more data-driven, with sensors, connectivity and AI enabling early detection of potential issues. This shift to predictive maintenance will improve efficiency, reduce downtime and extend vehicle life. It also allows fleet operators to optimise performance while reducing overall operating costs.
Preparing for a smarter fleet future
Transitioning to an EV fleet is complex, but it is manageable with careful planning. While data, connectivity, and smart maintenance will define the future of fleet operations, success depends on understanding vehicle differences, training teams, and investing in the appropriate infrastructure.