Since June 2025, electric vehicles (EVs) now make up 25% of vehicles registered in the UK.[1] and as the world moves towards a more sustainable future, businesses are under increasing pressure to reduce their environmental impact. One of the most effective ways companies can make a significant difference is by transitioning to an electric fleet.
This change can help shift emissions, and provides businesses with long term savings, as EVs have reduced fuel and maintenance costs.
With governments offering incentives and consumers becoming more eco-conscious, businesses are now considering switching to EVs. The team at Right Fuel Card has explored the top five benefits of transitioning to EV fleets.
Cost-saving initiatives
Many businesses have been deterred from adopting EVs due to concerns over running costs and the availability of charging points in the UK; however, in 2025, there are numerous cost benefits to running an electric fleet.
Most notably, businesses can claim 100% First Year Allowance (FYA) for installing EV charging points, accelerating tax relief and encouraging infrastructure investment. However, there are other, lesser-known benefits. EVs typically save up to £750 a year if they are mostly charged at home, compared to petrol or diesel cars. EVs, also have lower servicing and maintenance costs, typically costing 40% less.[2]
Charging services have also improved dramatically in recent years; according to GOV.UK, there are now over 74,000 public chargers in the UK.
There is also the EV infrastructure grant for small and medium-sized businesses, which gives you money off the cost of wider building and installation works needed to install multiple charge sockets. The grant covers 75% of the cost of the work, up to a maximum of £15,000.[3]
Future-proofing your business
The transition to electric vehicles is inevitable, with the sale of new petrol and diesel cars being banned in 2030, while hybrids will be phased out by 2035.[4] Businesses that embrace the change early gain a competitive advantage. This is because consumers and stakeholders are increasingly favouring companies that demonstrate sustainability.
Adopting an EV fleet today, and before they are phased out in 2030, can allow a business to stand out against competitors, an opportunity to take advantage of, before it becomes mainstream.
Environmental responsibility and brand image
Sustainability is no longer a choice, but a necessity for businesses looking to future-proof their operations. An EV fleet is one of the easiest ways to reduce a company’s carbon emissions and reliance on fossil fuels.
Alongside this, EV fleets improve a company’s brand image. It has been shown that companies which demonstrate more environmental responsibility are able to attract more customers, partners and investors.[5] Meaning that EVs aren’t just about helping the environment, they help your business too!
Compliance with clean air regulations
For many Brits driving is becoming increasingly difficult due to the recent introduction of clean air regulations. The Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) in London, and Clean Air Zones (CAZ) in various other UK cities are areas that charge high-emission vehicles a daily fee, with the aim of minimising air pollution.
Currently, all Greater London is under the ULEZ emission standard, while cities like Bristol, Birmingham, Portsmouth and Bath have similar schemes in place.
Adopting an electric fleet means that your business won’t be subject to daily fees from vehicles having to go to major cities, like London or Birmingham. While it might only seem like a small saving, this will also make it easier to trade in major cities, those travelling to London five days a week, every week are spending £3,000 a year in ULEZ charges.[6]
Access to new business opportunities
In today’s competitive marketplace, businesses are increasingly focused on enhancing their green initiatives as part of a broader commitment to sustainability. A company’s environmental image has become a critical factor that influences consumer perception, brand loyalty, and overall reputation.
As a result, companies are not only working to improve their own sustainability efforts but are also placing significant pressure on their suppliers and partners to align with these eco-conscious values. By choosing to work with green-certified and environmentally responsible suppliers, businesses can create a sustainable supply chain that reinforces their commitment to environmental stewardship, ultimately boosting their credibility and appeal to a growing segment of eco-conscious consumers.
Matthew Briggs, CEO at Right Fuel Card commented: “As the world transitions towards sustainability, the rise of electric EV fleets represents a pivotal shift in how businesses approach transportation. The environmental benefits are clear, but the financial advantages, such as lower fuel and maintenance costs are equally compelling. EV fleets also align with the growing demand from customers who are increasingly prioritising sustainability in their purchasing decisions. By adopting electric fleets, we’re not just responding to industry trends; we’re taking proactive steps to lead in innovation and efficiency.”
-
- https://businessclimatehub.uk/plan-for-switching-to-electric-vehicles-and-bikes/
- https://www.current-news.co.uk/new-automotive-one-in-four-uk-car-sales-an-ev-in-june/
- Electric vehicle infrastructure grant for staff and fleets – GOV-UK Find a grant
- https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/phasing-out-sales-of-new-petrol-and-diesel-cars-from-2030-and-supporting-the-zev-transition
- https://www.certa.ai/blogs/the-importance-of-esg-risk-oversight-in-partner-relations
- https://www.rapidformations.co.uk/blog/ulez-small-business-impact/
