100 Benefits of Electric Vehicles for Businesses
As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to increase in popularity, businesses are integrating more EVs into their operations. There is so much to learn in the ever-evolving landscape of electric cars.
We are breaking down the 100 benefits of commercial electric vehicles.
Let’s dive right in.
Cost Savings of Electric Vehicles
1. Less Maintenance
Compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, electric vehicles require a lot less maintenance. On average, electric vehicles cost $1,000 less to maintain than gas cars.
2. Less Fluids
EVs only require fluid replacements for windshield washer, brake, coolant, and transmission fluid. You only need to replace the brake fluid every five years and you typically change other fluids after 10,000 miles. These fluids are cheaper to change than oil.
3. Lower service costs
Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts than gas vehicles. Gas vehicles typically require more lifetime repairs than EVs. On average, EV owners can expect to pay around $4,500 on maintenance and repair costs. Gas car owners can expect about $9,000 in lifetime maintenance and repair costs.
4. Tax Credits
Purchasing electric cars and electric trucks for your business can help you qualify for tax credits. Organizations that buy a qualified commercial EV may qualify for a tax credit of up to $40,000.
5. Longer Lifespan
The average lifespan of an electric vehicle is about 200,000 miles or 12 years. A gas vehicle's average lifespan is about 8 years or 150,000 miles. If you are adding EVs to your fleet, you will have to replace your vehicles less frequently.
6. Rebates
There are a variety of different rebate programs available for businesses looking to add zero-emission vehicles to their operations. For example, the Clean School Bus Rebate Program offers rebates to replace gas buses with electric school buses.
7. Fuel Costs
When comparing gas vs electric one of the first places you’ll see cost savings is fuel costs. Electricity is typically far cheaper than gasoline and diesel. In 2018, researchers discovered that fueling an electric vehicle cost approximately $485 per year. In comparison, fueling a gas vehicle costs about $1,200 annually.
8. Utility Rates
Utility rates differ depending on where you live in the United States. Using an electric car in California is more affordable because gas is more expensive than electricity rates.
9. Grants for Electric Vehicles and EV Charging
One way to further reduce the costs of commercial EVs is to apply for grants for vehicles and EV charging. Recently the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) opened applications for the CFI Discretionary Grant Program. This grant program makes 700 million dollars available to deploy EV charging.
10. Off-Peak Charging
Depending on your electricity provider, electricity rates differ depending on the time of day. Off-peak charging means you are charging your vehicles at a time of day when demand is low. For example, National Grid’s off-peak hours in Massachusetts are from 9 pm to 8 am Monday through Friday. This would make your charging costs lower during those times.
11. Vehicle Value
Electric vehicles tend to retain value better than gas cars depending on the model of course. After 5 years, a Tesla Model 3 retains approximately 71% of its value. In comparison, a Nissan Altima retains around 65% of its value after the same period.
12. Lower Operational Costs
Driving an electric truck or car is cheaper per mile than driving an ICE vehicle. Driving 15,000 miles in an EV costs around $550 versus the $1,300 it would cost in gasoline.
13. Easier Electrical System Maintenance
ICE cars have around 30-50 computers, while Teslas have fewer computers that connect to one main control computer. Teslas have fewer wires than gas cars, making them easier and cheaper to install, repair, or replace when needed.
14. Government Incentives
Businesses and consumers have access to government incentives for purchasing, operating, and installing charging infrastructure for EVs. SparkCharge can help your business qualify for different programs.
15. State Incentives
There are many different options with state incentives for electric vehicles. Some examples include the Massachusetts MOR-EV Program, Texas Clean Fleet Grant, and the California Clean Vehicle Rebate Program.
16. Reduce Total Cost of Ownership
The total cost of ownership for EVs is lower than ICE cars. A study by Consumer Reports found that owning a gas vehicle costs 43% more than owning an electric vehicle.
17. More Affordable Models
Electric cars are becoming cheaper. OEMs release new models every year. These new models aim to reduce the price difference between electric cars and gas-powered cars.
18. Energy Cost Predictability
Gasoline and diesel prices are difficult to predict and change frequently. EV charging costs are more predictable and stable. EV charging companies like SparkCharge bundle costs into one rate for better planning.
Environmental Impact of EVs
19. Zero-Emission
Electric vehicles have no tailpipe emissions. This can help your company reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and carbon footprint.
20. Corporate Value Chain Standard Compliance
The Greenhouse Gas Protocol created the Corporate Value Chain Standard to help businesses understand and track their emissions. Using electric vehicles in your fleet or employee vehicles can help reduce Scope 1 and Scope 3 emissions.
21. Reduce local air pollution
Electric vehicles reduce local air pollution. Using electric school buses, transit vans, and shuttles can create cleaner air for their communities.
22. Less Harmful Fluids
The use and disposal of fossil-based products like motor oil do not apply to EVs. Oil in ICE cars can harm wildlife if not disposed of correctly because of toxic chemicals.
23. Less Waste
Every year, researchers and engineers develop new technologies to increase the sustainability of electric vehicles. Repurposing and recycling batteries is one way to reduce the waste associated with EV manufacturing. EVs reuse as much material as possible to reduce waste of production.
24. Contributes to Circular Economy
Technicians can repair used electric vehicles and reuse their parts to make new EVs, thereby prolonging their lifespan. This lowers the environmental impact and decreases the demand for the mining of new materials.
25. Eco-Friendly Materials in EVs
Many new EVs on the market opt to use recycled materials inside their EVs. Car manufacturers are using recycled materials, bioplastics, and plant-based materials for a more eco-friendly car interior.
26. Contribute to Sustainable Development
EV adoption for businesses and consumers is a large part of sustainable development in the United States. Estimates suggest that about 60% of employees drive to work. Switching to electric vehicles, whether owned by companies or consumers, reduces air pollution and promotes a sustainable future.
27. Fewer Environmental Risks
Oil spills unfortunately are a common occurrence. According to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, there were 137 oil spills in 2018. By increasing the adoption of EVs, we reduce the need for oil and the risks associated.
28. Better for Public Health
Not only do EVs reduce air pollution, but they can also improve public health. Respiratory problems linked to poor air quality are reduced in areas where EV adoption was higher according to a study done at the University of Southern California.
29. Less Noise Pollution
Gone are the days of loud exhausts and noisy traffic if you’re driving an electric car. EVs have relatively no sound while driving making for a more pleasant ride and reduced noise pollution in your community.
30. No Environmental Odors
Diesel vehicles in particular tend to have a strong exhaust odor because of the higher sulfur content. Switching to electric buses, trucks, and vans can eliminate odors caused by larger gas vehicles.
31. Community Engagement
Strengthening relationships with local communities and municipalities by supporting cleaner air and reduced noise pollution.
Driver Benefits
32. Use the HOV lane
In some states, electric vehicle drivers can use the HOV lane even if they don't have any passengers.
33. Battery Life
While ICE cars get their energy from burning fuel, EVs get their energy directly from a battery pack. These battery packs last over 20 years, which is 10 years more than a gas engine's lifespan.
34. Designated Parking Spaces
Buildings often place EV chargers closer to the door and always reserve them for electric vehicles. Some parking lots have zero-emission vehicle designated spots to make it more convenient for EV owners to park.
35. Better Handling
They place EV batteries in the bottom of the vehicle because of their weight. This results in better handling because of a lower center of gravity.
36. Better Driving Experience
Electric vehicles (EVs) are quieter and provide a smooth driving experience. They accelerate and decelerate smoothly, without any vibrations. Additionally, they have smooth gear shifting, making driving enjoyable and effortless.
37. Peak Torque
Electric cars provide peak torque instantly for immediate acceleration. Gas and diesel cars take time to reach their maximum torque.
38. Increased Safety
Electric vehicles have a significantly lower risk of fire than gas cars. EVs have safety features that disable the electrical system during a collision. A study discovered that out of every 100,000 gas cars sold, 1,530 of them caught fire. In contrast, fires involved only 25 electric cars out of 100,000.
39. Storage Space
Because EVs don’t have a large engine under the hood, EVs have extra storage space in the front trunk, “frunk.”
40. Smoother Ride
EVs have a single-speed transmission that directly connects the electric motor to the drive wheels via a drive shaft. This makes for a smoother, calmer ride.
41. High Tech Infotainment Systems
Electric cars have advanced technology like games, voice control, charger planners, and software updates that gas-powered cars may not have.
42. Innovations
Companies are dedicated to improving and innovating new technologies for EVs because this industry is growing rapidly. Companies like SparkCharge are creating convenient and innovative ways to charge EVs.
43. Regenerative Braking
Regenerative Braking, one-pedal driving, is controlling the acceleration and acceleration of the vehicle with just the gas pedal. This process creates and stores additional energy to help preserve battery life.
44. New Models
Increased demand for electric vehicles means more automotive OEMs are starting to release their electric models. Some of the latest models include the BMW i5, Cadillac Celestiq, Canoo Pickup Truck, and Fisker Ocean.
45. Plug-in Hybrids
If you are not ready to fully commit to a battery electric vehicle (BEV), you could choose a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). With PHEVs, the main source of energy is still a battery pack, but it still has an ICE engine that takes over when the battery runs out.
46. Hybrid Vehicles
Hybrid vehicles are also available as an introduction to BEVs. A PHEV combines the battery and the ICE. On the other hand, a hybrid utilizes the battery only at slow speeds and the ICE at other times.
47. Future-Proofing
Prepare your business for potential future mandates and regulations around clean transportation and energy by adding electric vehicles to operations.
48. Improved Range
A big barrier to EV adoption was range anxiety, the fear of running out of range while driving. Manufacturers are making vehicles with longer ranges that even exceed some gas vehicles to ease the minds of drivers. The Lucid Air has a range of 516 miles, the Tesla Model S has 405 miles, and the Hyundai Ioniq has 361 miles of range.
49. Innovative Industry
You and your business are part of an innovative industry. This industry aims for a greener future. It involves making vehicles, charging equipment, recycling materials, and owning an EV.
EV Charging Benefits
50. Home Charging
You can charge electric vehicles from your home overnight. This solution is great for vehicles that employees use daily. These are typically Level 1 or Level 2 chargers. Decentralized employee fleet vehicles can also use services like SparkCharge CaaS for charging.
51. Renewable Energy
If you have solar panels or other renewable energy, you can use clean energy to charge your electric vehicles. This will help reduce emissions.
52. Public Charging
Because of the recent rise in electric vehicles, public charging infrastructure is increasing to keep up with the demand. There are charging stations at grocery stores, malls, restaurants, and more. Charging on the road is becoming easier and more convenient thanks to innovative technology used by mobile EV charging companies. However, public charging infrastructure still needs improvement.
53. DC fast charging
DC fast charging can quickly charge your vehicle from 20 to 80% in as little as 30 minutes, allowing you to resume your journey promptly.
54. Battery Preconditioning
Most EVs have a battery preconditioning feature. This feature warms up the battery for faster charging speeds.
55. Charging delivery services
Imagine getting to work every morning and having a fleet of vehicles with full gas tanks. That’s what SparkCharge Fleet is all about. They provide electric vehicle charging services to your fleet vehicles at any time and any place. This guarantees that your fleet vehicles always have a full charge and are ready for use.
56. Charging Station Maps
EV charging station maps help EV drivers find the nearest charging stations. Vehicles can integrate infotainment centers with charging station maps for easy access and route planning.
57. Emergency EV Charging
Roadside assistance companies are starting to adopt portable EV charging methods to offer roadside assistance for electric vehicles. Companies like AAA use the Roadie Portable to charge EVs on the road so drivers can get to their destinations. This is much faster and more cost-effective for businesses and EV owners than towing an electric vehicle on a flatbed.
58. Workplace Charging
In many office parks and large cities, there are charging stations at workplaces. If your office doesn’t offer EV charging stations, SparkCharge Charging-as-a-Service (CaaS) can be ordered on-site wherever the vehicle is parked.
59. Residential Charging
Offering EV charging to your residents is an added perk that attracts a new customer base for apartment complexes. It can help demonstrate to your residents that you care about their needs and are always willing to help.
60. Mobile EV Fleet Charging
Mobile EV fleet charging makes electrification seamless for businesses. SparkCharge Fleet services simplify fleet electrification by managing electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE), charger maintenance, electricity costs, and more into one program.
61. Charging for Events
Trade shows, races, car shows, and any event featuring electric vehicles are going to need charging. Portable EV chargers are available to ensure vehicles maintain their charge throughout the entire event.
62. Research & Development Charging
EV charging tech is always being tested and improved. The goal is to make it faster, easier, and more convenient. Portable mobile EV chargers, such as the Roadie Portable, simplify EV charging research and development for OEMs in labs.
63. Roadside EV Charging
Businesses that use electric vehicles for longer trips can use portable DC fast chargers to extend the range of their vehicles and charge on the road.
64. Decentralized Fleet Charging
Decentralized fleets such as rental car companies require specialized EV charging. Oftentimes vehicles are returned with no charge or low on charge which increases the downtime of the vehicle. With mobile decentralized fleet charging, cars can be charged quickly and anywhere so they are always ready to go.
65. Mobile EV Chargers
Mobile EV chargers are a great stop-gap for EV charging solutions. If your business has electric cars but is stuck waiting for infrastructure installation, mobile EV charging is a great option.
66. Charge Management Systems
Charge management systems (CMS) are integrated with EVs and EV chargers to monitor vehicles and their state of charge. This helps get accurate data that can help improve operational efficiency.
67. Improved EV Reporting
Charging-as-a-service programs have detailed reports that give your fleet managers valuable insight into the performance of their electric vehicles.
68. EV Charging Apps
EV charging smartphone apps have a variety of functions. Some apps show you your past charging history, where the nearest charging station is, or even apps that let you order EV charging delivery.
69. User Friendly Chargers
Charging stations make their chargers as user-friendly as possible. With most charging stations you simply insert your payment method and plug in.
70. Charger Uptime
Public charging stations are going to experience some downtime. It could be due to maintenance, upgrades, and sometimes vandalism. Mobile EV charging companies like SparkCharge created EV charging delivery services to eliminate charger downtime.
71. Immediately Deployable EV Charging
SparkCharge’s portable EV charging units are not tied to the grid while charging. This means that they are immediately deployable for your business.
72. On Demand EV Charging
Fleets and businesses can request EV charging when it is needed to keep operations running smoothly. This gives your business flexibility when it comes to EV charging.
73. Leased Lot Charging Options
If your business or fleet does not own the lot it operates on, getting a fixed EV charging station can be difficult or even impossible. SparkCharge’s EV charging solutions have no installation or construction making it a great option for leased spaces.
Operational Benefits
74. Emergency Energy Source
Electric vehicles have a variety of functions for providing power. In an event where equipment or tools may be out of charge, EVs can be used as an emergency power source to recharge those tools.
75. Increase Productivity
There are many ways using EVs can increase your business’ productivity. Having commercial EVs charged and ready to go when drivers arrive sets them up for success for the day. EVs being more reliable and having less maintenance also help increase your fleet’s productivity.
76. Increased Flexibility
If your business chooses to have a mobile EV charging partner, you can increase the flexibility of your parking lot. When installing fixed infrastructure, you’ll have to designate specific spots for charging stations. Using a mobile EV charging delivery service allows you to maintain the configuration of your lot and meet the charging needs of EVs.
77. Help Fleets meet the Energy Policy Act (EPAct) Requirements
This aims to reduce the consumption of petroleum for fleets. By adding electric cars to your fleet, you help your fleet meet the requirements of the State and Alternative Fuel Provider Fleet Program.
Employee Satisfaction
78. Giving Employees a New Set of Skills
Using EVs in daily operations allows your employees to acquire a new set of skills. It helps set them up for future success with electric vehicles.
79. Exposing Employees to new technologies
Whether it’s the charging equipment or the vehicles themselves employees gain exposure and experience with new cleantech technologies. This helps them expand their knowledge and can make jobs more interesting.
80. Aiding EV Adoption
By adopting electric vehicles your businesses are helping commercial EV adoption, but it can also help consumer EV adoption. Giving your drivers, employees, and clients experience with electric vehicles helps them become more familiar with the vehicles.
81. Creates more jobs
Since the signing of the CHIPS and Science Act in 2022, more parts and equipment have been manufactured in the United States. Choosing companies and partners that manufacture in the United States, such as SparkCharge, can help increase the number of jobs in the EV industry.
82. Offering Workplace Charging
Adding EV charging as a perk to your workplace can attract a wide range of applicants. This can also improve morale around the office and make your office stand out.
83. Workshops and Training Sessions
Provide opportunities for employees to gain new certifications in a new and growing industry (EV maintenance, charging infrastructure, and related technologies).
84. Attracting and Maintaining Environmentally Conscious Employees
Using EVs or offering perks for EV owners demonstrates to new employees that you value sustainability. This can attract employees who share the values of your company.
Brand Reputation and Image
85. Improve Corporate Social Responsibility
Using EVs demonstrates to customers and partners that you are committed to EV adoption. Companies that are looking to make an impact can also work collaboratively with local and state governments, other businesses, and their communities to help develop charging infrastructure.
86. Introduce Electric Vehicles to Customer Base
Using EVs in your operations is a great way to introduce them to your customers. For example, if your rental car companies offer electric cars, not only does your brand demonstrate its commitment to clean transportation, but also lets drivers gain access to EVs.
87. Attract a new audience of customers
Just like adding EVs can attract new employees, it can also attract a new customer base. Consumers choose to align themselves with brands that share similar values, and using electric vehicles shows these customers that you value sustainability.
88. Marketing Advantages
Using EVs is an opportunity to market your business as an eco-friendly and socially responsible company.
89. Enhanced Reputation
Using EVs can help gain your company new media coverage that can help your brand’s reputation and boost sales.
90. Demonstrate Community Leadership
Lead by example in the EV revolution. Show your customers and community that you are leading the way in new technologies.
91. Differentiate from competitors
Get ahead of the competition by catering to the EV industry. For example, an EV owner is going to choose a roadside assistance company that offers specialized services for EVs, such as roadside EV charging.
Revenue Generation
92. New Business Opportunities
Adding EVs to your business opens up the door to new opportunities and partnerships with brands in the EV industry.
93. Mobile Charging for Quick ROI on EVSE
Mobile EV charging with SparkCharge allows your business to generate revenue quickly. SparkCharge deploys EV charging with no upfront costs so you can start using your EVs in your operations immediately to start generating revenue from day 1.
94. Increase Dwell time
Adding EV charging to your business increases the customer dwell time. More time spent at your business equals more revenue.
95. More Loyal Customers
Customers with electric vehicles will continue to return to a business where they know they can charge their vehicles.
96. Partnerships with Other Businesses
Partner with other EV or EV charging companies to expand your audience and generate more revenue.
97. Staying Ahead of Industry Trends
The demand for cleaner and greener transportation is on the rise and by adopting EVs and utilizing new technologies your business can help stay ahead.
98. Eco-Tourism
Attract environmentally conscious travelers by offering EV rentals or transportation.
99. Optimized Driver Routes
One of the most important steps in adding EVs to fleets is analyzing driver routes. Since EVs have a limited range before they need to charge, you want to make sure your drivers are staying on the most efficient routes. This can help increase productivity and customer satisfaction.
100. Scalable Fleet Operations
EV charging as a service programs provide businesses with an easily scalable EV charging solution. When your business is ready to add more EVs, you can simply just request more EV charging deliveries.
What Do You Think?
Whether you are looking at purchasing EVs for your business or personal use there are so many benefits of going electric.