AA Business Services is sharing key lessons learned for B2B drivers looking to secure smooth future charging experiences after successfully completing the EV Rally 2023.
The EV Rally 2023, which took place between 3rd and 7th July, was a demonstration of UK and Irish EV charging infrastructure. The event saw AA Business Services and Drivetech, part of the AA, travel alongside approximately 50 EVs for five days from Cardiff to Dublin via London, Edinburgh, and Belfast, covering over 1,200 all-electric miles.
It also provided an opportunity for business drivers to find out more about how they use the UK’s charging network better to their advantage, says James Starling, director, AA Business Services. “The outlook for electric cars is undeniably bright, with a multitude of positive factors shaping the future. An expanding range of models available in the market, soaring levels of new car registrations, enhanced driving ranges, reduced charging costs, and significant investments in charging infrastructure all combine to make the decision to purchase a plug-in car increasingly compelling.”
“Equally, recent changes to the Public Charge Point Regulations, which will improve the consumer charging experience across payments, pricing, data, and reliability, will all ease the journey to alternative fuels. In the meantime, there are a number of actions drivers can take now to make their EV journeys go more smoothly and quickly that we’ve learned first-hand during the rally – critical factors that can make a huge difference when it comes to time sensitive business trips.”
Charging network ‘savoir fair’ equals smoother journeys
The UK has a solid range of charging networks in place, now comprising 42,000 plus public charging points spread out across almost 25,000 locations (Zap Map). The official charging network apps, in addition to Zap Map and PlugShare, provide real-time information on charger availability, pricing and location details. Understanding the payment methods used by each one will ease your journey considerably too, although contactless payments are coming, thanks to the government’s recent mandate to introduce them.
Plan ahead for longer journeys
Calculate the distance between charging stations, the charging speed of each station, and the estimated time required to reach your destination. By factoring in charging times during your journey, you can ensure a stress-free and uninterrupted travel experience.
Don’t be afraid to use rapid chargers
According to the AA EV Recharge Report June 2023, EV drivers have enjoyed a 19% drop in peak rates and a 15% drop in off-peak rates respectively since May. With energy prices predicted to fall further, this could be just the beginning of cheaper EV running costs.
The AA was the official Roadside Assistance Partner for the 2023 EV Rally, while Drivetech, part of the AA, was the driver training partner.
To find out more about AA Business Services, please visit: https://bit.ly/3fXnVku.