Restructuring Transport Emissions: Reevaluating Decarbonisation Strategies for Vehicles in a Fleet Context
In the realm of commercial fleet management, one name has been making waves - Ben Varey, an independent advisor helping companies navigate the dual challenge of rising costs and decarbonization. Previously responsible for fleet management at Otis and SGS, Varey is now guiding companies towards a greener future.
However, a quick search reveals no information about the companies for which Varey has provided his expertise this year. This underscores the complexity and confidential nature of the work he is undertaking.
As for the vehicles themselves, the focus is not solely on electrification. While battery electric vehicles (BEVs) hold promise, they can falter due to operational inconsistency rather than inherent flaws. This is particularly true for longer rural routes or shift-based services, where heavy infrastructure investment may be required.
In such contexts, hybrids offer a pragmatic route to emissions reduction. They can effectively replace diesel vans for site visits and inspections, maintaining service quality while cutting emissions. However, hybrids may not be the long-term solution for commercial fleets. A thoughtful and strategic deployment of these vehicles is key, aligning vehicle choice with task need.
Optimising routes with telematics, reducing idling, and monitoring driver behaviour can achieve significant emissions cuts. Rightsizing, an often overlooked opportunity for immediate carbon reduction, involves analysing vehicle utilisation, load profiles, and journey types to match needs with the most efficient option available.
Decarbonisation of fleets is not solely about the vehicles, but also how they are used. System-wide measures like load efficiency improvements, rigorous maintenance routines, and reconsidering resources used in vehicle washes lower the overall environmental impact.
The fleets that will lead this transition are those with the clearest strategy, leanest operations, and the courage to challenge the status quo. It's essential to remember that electrification is necessary but not a complete solution; decarbonisation demands a fundamental mindset shift.
Many decarbonisation plans focus on "looking green" rather than achieving deep, structural change. A toolkit approach is necessary, recognising where electrification works well and where other strategies are more effective. Real decarbonisation requires interrogating every journey, asset, and assumption, focusing on "how intelligently can we reduce emissions?"
If you're interested in staying updated on the latest developments in this field, consider subscribing to the monthly LCV Community newsletter. Ben Varey is also involved in the Fleet Europe Commercial Fleets Community, where industry professionals share insights and best practices.
As we move towards a more sustainable future, it's clear that the journey will be complex and multifaceted. With experts like Ben Varey leading the way, we can navigate these challenges and build a greener future for commercial fleets.
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