Electric Vehicle Charging could create an additional revenue stream for many business owners while contributing to the CSR policy and providing a service to the community.
Latest data, according to figures from Next Green Car, report that there are now more than 53,000 plug-in cars and vans in the UK, with access to 10,500 charge points. More drivers are looking to switch to Electronic vehicles opening up new opportunities for businesses to increase their profits and deliver additional customer services.
Red Rock Facilities Management’s Kevin Welsby believes this could present a real opportunity for facilities managers as many local councils have not yet implemented vital electric vehicle charging points.
“I think the market is wide open for private businesses to take the lead.
“While there are private charging points available for residential use, the homeowner needs off-street parking and deep pockets to have one installed in their home.
“Businesses who switch to an EV fleet, could open up their charge point and bill the public for its use.
“In addition to the revenue from the electric charge point itself, some businesses could benefit from increased custom from electric vehicle owners through longer stays and increased footfall. A typical vehicle takes between 20 minutes and 6 hours to charge, potentially providing the service provider with a captive audience.
“For instance, in the USA, ChargePoint found that customer ‘dwell time’ increased by an average of 50 minutes per customer. For retail stores, cafes and travel and tourism providers, this could boost turnover and increase visitor loyalty – something many businesses are likely to find appealing.”
Businesses who use electric company cars can take advantages of the tax benefits of electric company cars.
It can also help to showcase the business’ green credentials, as well as reducing the carbon footprint of its own fleet.
Kevin adds: “Charging points can be set up to monetise car parking space that is unused outside of office hours, while allowing the business the facility it needs to cover its own needs during the day.
“The installation of an electric vehicle charging point may be a step into the unknown for facilities management, yet the so-called ‘soft benefits’ could be worthy of consideration, and could lift ROI sufficiently to make it worthwhile.
“In particular, the marketing benefits and visibility of a business could receive a much-needed boost once chargers are installed.”