The Association of Fleet Professionals (AFP) has called for a measured approach to addressing cybersecurity concerns surrounding company cars and vans, amid recent reports highlighting potential vulnerabilities.

Citing recent media reports, the association cautioned about the potential for vehicles, particularly EVs and those manufactured in China, to be hacked or used for spying and espionage.

AFP chair Paul Hollick said that there are legitimate issues to address, but suggested that these likely impact only a small number of fleets.

He emphasised that the risks are minimal for most fleets, and taking action may not be necessary.

Hollick said: “Our feeling is that fleets should deal with this in a proportionate manner. If you are working in an industry where security is perceived as a less critical issue and are serving a similar customer base, then the possibilities of a problem arising are almost certainly slight.

“The concentration on EVs is probably unfair. Because they are new and tend to be among the most advanced vehicles on the road, electric cars and vans will be better equipped with the kinds of cameras and microphones that present risk, but there is no practical experience to suggest that they bring a higher level of jeopardy.”

He also noted that several AFP members with extensive vehicle cybersecurity experience are willing to share best practice guidance to help address these concerns.

Last month, AFP said confidence is as “important” to boosting consumer demand in the used EV sector as pricing.

Key confidence factors include proving the long-term reliability of EV batteries and ensuring charging is economical and accessible.