Electrification presents many new challenges for fleets, and navigating the transition effectively is not an easy task. As a fleet manager, optimizing electric operations will require changes that introduce friction across the entire organization. For many operators, adjusting to new routines can feel overwhelming – your team may have concerns about vehicle reliability, access to charging infrastructure, and new operational routines. However, you don’t have to overhaul your operations overnight, the first step in optimization is education. Many drivers are not aware of the impact they can have on operational efficiency. If you can successfully incentivize and implement small, manageable behavioral changes, you can start to improve efficiency, extend battery life, and reduce costs across your fleet. A good place to start might be encouraging your drivers to ask themselves these three simple questions before plugging in.

1. Does This Vehicle Need to Be Used Again Before Tomorrow?

One of the easiest ways to cut energy costs is by charging vehicles at night instead of immediately upon return. Many energy providers use time-of-use (TOU) pricing, where electricity rates peak in the late afternoon and early evening. Since most fleet vehicles operate primarily during the day, scheduling EV charging during off-peak nighttime hours can lead to significant savings—potentially reducing energy costs by up to 50%. Scheduled charging is often available directly on charging infrastructure or via mobile applications, and delaying the charging cycle when plugging into a charger can be a lucrative habit to develop.

2. Does This Vehicle Really Need More Energy?

Drivers know that charging to 100% after each use is the best way to keep vehicles ready, but in many cases, it’s an unnecessary and wasteful practice. Most fleet vehicles use only 10-20% of their battery during daily operations and don’t require daily charging. Encouraging drivers to keep battery levels between 20% and 80% when possible instead of always topping off can reduce battery degradation, lower charging costs by 30-60%, and extend overall battery life.

3. How Quickly Does This Vehicle Need to Be Back on the Road?

DC fast charging is useful for quick turnarounds, but frequent use can wear out batteries faster. High-powered charging generates excessive heat, which accelerates battery aging. Whenever possible, prioritize Level 2 charging stations, which provide a slower, more controlled charge. Newer Level 2 chargers are faster than ever, able to fully charge modern EVs in just a few hours—plenty of time for most fleet assets that charge at the end of a shift. Implementing fast-chargers only at large depots and high-traffic areas can ensure that drivers only seek out fast-charging when necessary. Experienced and educated drivers will understand how many hours of charging will be required to maintain daily operations and can select the infrastructure that best fits their needs.

Smarter Charging for a More Efficient Fleet

By implementing these simple changes—charging during off-peak hours, avoiding unnecessary charging, and limiting fast charging—your fleet can operate more efficiently and cost-effectively. Educating operators and encouraging these small adjustments can quickly lead to healthy charging habits, helping your organization maximize uptime and get the most value out of your EV investment. The future of fleet electrification is bright, and by making informed decisions early, your company will be well-positioned for long-term success in this evolving landscape.