The theme of this issue is ‘transitioning to an EV fleet’ and I’d like to think that most readers and fleets are at least on their way there. I’d also wager that the process to switch from their ICE car to some form of electrified vehicle has had its ups and downs, but has also been an interesting learning curve.

Speaking with people inside and outside of the industry gives me a fascinating perspective on the population and what they think about the ‘EV’ future. From alpha males who proudly boast “you’ll never take away my V8” to sceptics who believe it is all too much too soon, to the Tesla faithful who believe Mr Musk can do no wrong and was – and is – the only person to listen to when it comes to EVs. Everyone has an opinion and they are sticking to it.

Maybe it’s because of the job I do, but I can’t stomach that approach – there’s more nuance involved and each case should be judged accordingly. I’ve lost count of the amount of times someone from a car manufacturer has told me that they can’t – and won’t – force people into EVs. And yet some of the narratives around – particularly on social media – suggest that is the case.

Just today, I had a great chat with a retailer who explained his approach to selling EVs and the whole world around transitioning from ICE. He admitted that electric vehicles are not for everyone, but added that most people are genuinely interested in them. Given the choice of having an electric courtesy car (even if they have an ICE vehicle) from this dealer and they’ll jump at the chance, I was told. In light of the previous suggested narrative, I’m not sure if I’d call the whole scenario misinformation, but cherry-picking the evidence certainly plays its part (on both sides).

One thing that I think is vital is collaboration on the transition away from petrol and diesel cars and the ability for all sections of society to work together. Which is why I was a bit disappointed – and taken aback – to read a press release from one fleet this week, laying into Sadiq Khan after he was voted back into power as mayor of London. There were no congratulations, or recognition of his achievement (regardless of turnout – and without getting into politics – he won the vote fair and square) and the main quotes didn’t even mention him by name. Instead, the gist of the story was ‘pull your finger out, you need to get your act together when it comes to London’s charging infrastructure!’. The story did redeem itself slightly by offering an invitation to the mayor to ‘work more closely with representatives across the transport system – such as ourselves’, but that’s not exactly the best way to go about it, in my opinion.

These are difficult stressful times, with a lot of concern around the future of private transportation – especially in urban environments. Surely getting a solution that works for as many people as possible, by thrashing it out in a civilised and courteous way, is the best chance of success?

Enjoy the issue.

John Challen Editor