The UK’s EV transition is accelerating, but success at scale relies on more than just the vehicles and charging points. As last year’s EV Rally demonstrated, it’s the intelligent use of telematics data that provides the crucial insights needed for efficient journey planning, optimal charging schedules, and informed long-term strategy, separating the leaders from the laggards in the move to electrification. This report by Naomi Nye, Head of Sales at Drax Electric Vehicles.
The UK’s electric vehicle (EV) transition is charging ahead, and more fleets are embracing the shift with growing confidence. While switching from diesel and petrol is a vital step, running an electric fleet at scale is about much more than just the hardware. Reliable vehicles and smart charging infrastructure are crucial, but data remains one of the most underused tools in the fleet manager’s kit.
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As this year’s EV Rally approaches, I’m reminded of last year’s event, where Webfleet analysed vehicle data to show how EVs were driven, charged, and managed over long distances. Two teams were awarded gold based on their driving behaviours, which were tracked by the telematics software – one for the safest and most sustainable driving, and another for the most efficient driving over 1,400 miles. The findings revealed simple but powerful lessons in journey planning and range optimisation – all of which are applicable to everyday fleet operations.
According to the latest Arval Mobility Observatory Barometer, 19% of UK businesses operating vehicles are already using telematics in some capacity. A further 44% are considering adoption within the next three years. These figures put the UK ahead of both European and global averages.
However, while uptake is comparatively high on a global level, there are still plenty of UK fleets which are yet to realise the benefits of integrated telematics.
So what are these benefits and what challenges can they help fleet operators to overcome?
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By GlobalDataOne of the key advantages is that it helps fleets map out effective electrification strategies – whether introducing their first EV or expanding an existing fleet. By combining real-time data from vehicles, charging points, and energy systems, fleets can move beyond fragmented decision-making to gain a holistic operational view. Detailed route and dwell-time data can reveal which vehicles are genuinely suitable for electrification based on how they’re actually used – not just rough averages or assumptions. This helps businesses avoid costly errors like buying EVs that don’t meet range needs or installing chargers in the wrong locations. The right insights also highlight charging hotspots, optimise charger placement, and help plan charge schedules to avoid expensive energy peaks.
And the benefits extend far beyond planning and into day-to-day operations. Real-time data supports ongoing efficiency, alerting fleet managers to underperforming vehicles, flagging faulty chargers, and monitoring battery health to prevent downtime. If a vehicle’s battery starts to degrade, managers can schedule maintenance or replacement before it affects performance. Similarly, alerts for offline or underperforming chargers allow quick repairs to keep vehicles moving.
Energy data also enables smarter charging habits. By shifting charging to off-peak periods, fleets can cut energy bills and reduce grid pressure. When combined with green energy tariffs, telematics gives managers the evidence to track and report genuine emissions reductions – transparency that customers and investors increasingly expect.
Driver behaviour is another crucial factor. Monitoring acceleration, braking, and speed allows fleet managers to coach drivers towards smoother, more efficient habits that extend battery life, reduce wear and tear, and enhance safety. And when plans change – due to traffic, full chargers, or other disruptions – telematics systems can suggest alternative routes or charging points in real time. That flexibility helps fleets stay on schedule and maintain strong customer service.
As technology evolves, with AI-powered routing, vehicle-to-grid energy systems, and smarter charging solutions on the horizon, the fleets best positioned to thrive will be those already using integrated telematics to inform their decisions. By embedding data into everyday operations, businesses can stay agile, respond to change quickly, and ensure their electric fleet is ready for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
