AddSecure study highlights key hurdles in EV shift
A recent study conducted by connectivity solutions provider AddSecure has suggested that 83 per cent of transport companies in Europe want to shift to electric vehicles (EV) and/or alternative fuels – while also identifying some of the major hurdles they face in achieving the goal.
The main drivers for the transition to a more sustainable fleet are the companies’ sustainability goals and requirements from customers, says AddSecure; but the study also highlighted four key challenges in the shift to electrification: namely, range anxiety, lack of charging points, heavy batteries, and high cost of EVs.
The pan-European survey shows that one in four (26 per cent) transport companies consider sustainability to be the primary factor in wanting to transition to a more climate-friendly fleet – while more than one in five (23 per cent) said that demands from customers is the main driver for the transition.
“These findings highlight the need for greater investment in technology and infrastructure to support the transition to sustainable fleets in Europe, both in terms of meeting the transport companies’ requirements and in turn for them to be able to meet their customer’s demands,” said Claes Ödman, president, Smart Transport at AddSecure (pictured, right).
Over two thirds (70 per cent) of European transport companies said that concerns about a vehicle’s limited operating range (range anxiety) was a significant challenge. The lack of charging points along the roads was also mentioned as a concern for more than three in five (65 per cent), while both the heavy weight of the batteries and the high cost of EVs were cited as challenges by the majority (50 per cent).
But AddSecure says such issues can be overcome with smart technology.
“At AddSecure, we understand the challenges faced by transport companies in their transition to sustainable fleets. That’s why we are committed to providing innovative, smart solutions that help overcome these challenges and 
support the shift to electric and alternative fuel vehicles for a more sustainable future,” said Ulrika Allén, VP products and technology, Smart Transport at AddSecure (pictured, right).
The survey was conducted between October and November 2022, included 17 questions, and was shared with customers in 10 countries. In total, approximately 300 customers participated.
The pan-European report “Are you ready for the EV shift?” can be downloaded from the AddSecure website.
